And his previous record in this fixture has immediately become a major talking point. 🔴😳
Oliver has already taken charge of several Manchester derbies, with Manchester City historically having the better results when he has been in the middle.
His recent derby record makes for uncomfortable reading from a United perspective.
🔵 25 Mar 2014 — Manchester United 0-3 Manchester City
🔵 2 Nov 2014 — Manchester City 1-0 Manchester United
🔴 20 Mar 2016 — Manchester City 0-1 Manchester United
🔵 10 Dec 2017 — Manchester United 1-2 Manchester City
🔵 6 Nov 2021 — Manchester United 0-2 Manchester City
🔵 6 Mar 2022 — Manchester City 4-1 Manchester United
🔵 2 Oct 2022 — Manchester City 6-3 Manchester United
That is six City victories and just one United victory from those seven derbies. 💀🔵
However, there is an important update to the overall picture: Oliver has since refereed another Manchester derby, meaning his complete derby record is now eight matches, with City winning five and United winning three. There has never been a draw in a Manchester derby officiated by Oliver. 👀
Still, the appointment adds another layer of intrigue to Sunday’s enormous showdown.
United will enter the derby desperate to respond after surrendering a late lead against Everton in a frustrating 2-2 draw. Ainsley Maitland-Niles’ stoppage-time strike denied Michael Carrick’s side all three points, leaving United with only one league victory from their opening three matches.
Manchester City, meanwhile, arrive with plenty of confidence after beginning their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 victory away to Porto, with Erling Haaland scoring both goals.
And now the stage is set.
Old Trafford.
Manchester United vs Manchester City.
Michael Oliver with the whistle.
Carrick looking for a statement victory.
Maresca looking to maintain City’s momentum.
The numbers may favour City, but history does not decide football matches. United have already beaten City under Carrick in 2026, proving that this fixture can produce surprises regardless of form or statistics.
One thing is certain: there will be absolutely no hiding place on Sunday. 🔥
United fans, are you worried about Michael Oliver being appointed for the derby? 👀🔴
