Why does the Manchester Derby have an earlier kick off time?

 

Manchester City and Manchester United lock horns on Sunday afternoon as the duo renew rivalries at the Etihad Stadium. The City machine has really clicked into gear just as many expected, with Pep Guardiola's side now unbeaten in 18 after their resounding 6-2 win at Luton in midweek. 

 

United aren't exactly in poor form themselves having won six of their last seven. They followed up last week's disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Fulham with a late 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest to book their spot in the next round of the FA Cup, though the performances haven't been wholly convincing. 

 

Erik ten Hag's side need to up their game if they are to secure a massive victory to boost their top-four hopes. That'll prove easier said than done, though. United have a raft of defensive injuries, are without their star striker and have lost their last two trips to the Etihad Stadium, conceding 10 goals in those two games. 

 

Against a City side that is yet to lose at home in all competitions this season, United are really up against it in their bid to secure all the spoils in Sunday's showdown. 

 

As fans will have noticed, though, this Super Sunday clash has an earlier kick off. The main Sunday game will often occupy the 16:30 GMT slot on Sky Sports, but this weekend; the Manchester Derby will kick off at an earlier 15:30 GMT. But why is that? 

 

 

Well it's due to a reported agreement between broadcasters and police. Crowd trouble can prove an issue for massive derbies and the Manchester Derby is no exception. This also affects the meeting between Burnley and Bournemouth earlier on Sunday, which will now kick off at 13:00 GMT rather than the usual 14:00 GMT slot.

 

So in order to avoid missing any of Sunday's Manchester Derby, just be aware that this one will kick off one hour earlier than usual.

Why does the Manchester Derby have an earlier kick off time?