Manchester United kick off their preparations for the 2021-22 season campaign with a pre-season clash against Derby County. The match schedules for Sunday at the Pride Park Stadium, with kickoff at 3 pm.
The Red Devils begin their new season with a clash against Leeds United on August 14, whereas Derby will start their Championship season at home to Huddersfield Town on August 7.
The 2020-21 campaign for Derby County was one to forget while fighting on final matchday to avoid relegation. The side followed by picking 44 points from their 46 Championship matches to finish down at 21st spot.
Furthermore, there was a hard tussle over relegation to League One, with the EFL considered an appeal against a £100,000 fine issued for financial regularities. However, Wayne Rooney’s side will play in the Championship next term.
Moreover, the Rams face a transfer embargo and can only sign free agents and loan players. It makes it a hard start to the new season, given all the expectations and pressure mounting.
On the other hand, Manchester United ended their campaign on a low note losing out to Villarreal in the Europa League finals. However, they face the Champions League next season after a second-place finish in the Premier League.
The Red Devils have five pre-season friendlies with fixtures against Queen Park Rangers, Brentford and Preston North End.
Derby County vs Manchester United Head to Head
Both sides have nine games against each other with Derby County taking one win while Manchester United with seven wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Villarreal 1-1 Manchester United
- Wolves 1-2 Man United
- Man United 1-1 Fulham
- Man United 2-4 Liverpool
- Aston Villa 1-3 Man United
Away
- Derby County 3-3 Sheffield Wednesday
- Swansea City 2-1 Derby County
- Derby County 1-2 Birmingham City
- Preston North End 3-0 Derby County
- Blackburn Rovers 2-1 Derby County
Derby County Team News
The Rams saw the departure of Scott Malone, Martyn Waghorn, Jack Mariott and Henrich Ravas. Furthermore, there are no new signings expected at the campaign. Old faces to show up include Sone Aluko, Richard Stearman, Sam Baldock and Phil Jagielka.
Manchester United Team News
Tom Heaton is a new signing that could start immediately between the sticks. Other senior players available for selection includes Nemanja Matic, Aaron Wan Bissaka and Juan Mata. Other youngsters available for selection are Elanga, Greenwood and Garner.
Prediction and Odds
Even though there isn’t much riding on this match, we expect the opponents quality to give them a win.
- Man United Win
- Double Chance
- Both Teams to Score
