Manchester City have taken the lead in the Women's Super League, capitalising on Chelsea's slip-up by defeating Everton 2-1. Meanwhile, Manchester United are eager to challenge their city rivals after
a recent setback. A 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa ended United's unbeaten run and missed their chance to move up the table. However, a 2-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League has restored their confidence.
City's position at the top is not entirely secure, as they are only second favourites for the title with a 25.6% chance according to Opta's supercomputer. Chelsea remains the favourite with a 70% probability of winning. United, on the other hand, have just a 2.1% chance of finishing first this season. The upcoming Manchester derby will be crucial for both teams' title hopes.
The Manchester derby has historically favoured City, but United have been closing the gap recently. Last season, United defeated City 4-2 at the Etihad Stadium. Despite this, City's home record against United is strong, with four wins and one draw in their first five WSL meetings. The supercomputer predicts City as favourites with a 55.9% chance of winning.
United are aiming to extend their unbeaten streak against City to three matches for the first time in top-flight history. However, they face an uphill battle with only a 21.3% chance of victory and a 22.8% likelihood of drawing according to predictions.
Under Andree Jeglertz's leadership, City have been impressive this season despite an initial loss to Chelsea. They are currently on a seven-match winning streak in the WSL, their longest since a 14-game run between November 2023 and April 2024. City's attacking prowess is evident as they have scored 20 goals so far this season, averaging 2.5 goals per game.
Khadija Shaw has been instrumental in City's success, scoring five goals this term including the winner against Everton last Saturday. She leads in shots (44), big chances (12), and expected goals (7.2 xG) in the WSL this season.
United's Defensive Concerns
United suffered a disappointing loss to Aston Villa despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances with 15 shots overall. Their defence has shown vulnerability recently, failing to keep clean sheets in their last four league matches while conceding five goals.
Despite these defensive issues, United remain unbeaten away from home in the WSL this season with four consecutive wins on the road. They hope to continue this form against City at Etihad Stadium.
Key Players: Miedema and Toone
Vivianne Miedema has been crucial for City this season with three goals from big chances including one against Everton last weekend. She also leads her team in creating opportunities with twelve chances created so far.
Earning more appearances than any other player in WSL Manchester derbies is Ella Toone who has directly contributed to five goals (three goals and two assists). Her hat-trick performance at Etihad last January highlights her impact on these fixtures.
The upcoming derby promises excitement as both teams vie for supremacy not just within Manchester but also within England’s top flight women’s football league standings.
