Why is the Manchester derby at 3:30pm on Sunday? Many have been asking on Google ahead of the Premier League clash between Manchester United and Manchester City.
Sunday’s showpiece event usually begins at 4:30pm in the United Kingdom if Sky Sports hold the broadcasting rights, leaving many puzzled by the earlier kick-off.
So, why is the Manchester derby at 3:30pm on Sunday? Let’s take a look…
Why is Manchester United vs Manchester City at 3:30pm?
Well, the decision was mutually agreed between both Manchester United and Manchester City.
Manchester United addressed the matter on their official website, conceding that the rescheduled time is an “unusual” slot, but it had been agreed upon with Manchester City, as well as the broadcaster and local authorities.
Manchester United’s reference to “local authorities” suggests this decision could be down to policing.
That is certainly a possible reason behind the rescheduled time given the feisty nature of the Manchester derby – although that is pure speculation at this stage and cannot be confirmed.
There have also been rumours of the change coming as a result of clocks in the United Kingdom going back by one hour on Sunday 29th October.
Clocks in the United States and other areas – however – will not be going backwards as well, so some are speculating that the Premier League have decided to just leave the Manchester derby as it is, rather than push it back for overseas audiences.
The official reason has sadly not been made clear, with Manchester United only revealing that the decision was mutually agreed upon between all parties, so at least everyone is content with the change.
Hopefully – regardless of when it starts – the Manchester derby is a hugely entertaining spectacle once again, as Pep Guardiola looks to get revenge on Erik ten Hag for beating him at Old Trafford last season.
