Manchester City and Manchester United, despite spending heavily on some of the world’s top attacking players, will see the spotlight on their goalkeepers in Sunday’s derby.
Both clubs are expected to start with new goalkeepers following transfer deadline day signings aimed at strengthening their squads. City signed Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain, while United brought in Belgium international Senne Lammens.
Donnarumma, who played a key role in PSG’s Champions League victory last season, was released in the summer and will take over from City’s long-time No. 1 Ederson. The Italian keeper is not a typical choice for manager Pep Guardiola, who prefers goalkeepers who act almost like additional defenders and excel at playing out from the back. However, Donnarumma said he is ready to adapt, adding, “I always try to help the team and do what the coach asks of me. I do everything."
United sidelined former No. 1 Andre Onana for their first three league games, while backup Altay Bayindir failed to impress. Lammens, signed from Royal Antwerp, remains largely unknown outside Belgium.
The Manchester derby at Etihad Stadium already carries high stakes for both sides. City, whose four-year title streak ended last season, is trying to recover after a sluggish start of one win and two losses. Consecutive defeats to Tottenham and Brighton have raised doubts about the squad’s readiness to compete at the top.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, who lost to Liverpool in their last match, face Nottingham Forest under new manager Ange Postecoglou after Nuno Espirito Santo’s dismissal. Defending champions Liverpool travel to newly promoted Burnley.
Several new signings could make their debuts in the first round after the transfer window. Alexander Isak, who recently joined Liverpool, has not yet had a major role this season. Newcastle replaced Isak with Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa. Aston Villa secured late loan deals for Jadon Sancho and Harvey Elliott, while Tottenham strengthened their attack with Randal Kolo Muani and Xavi Simons.
Injuries continue to affect City, with Omar Marmoush suffering a knee injury while on international duty and Rayan Cherki out for around two months with a torn left quadriceps. New United signing Matheus Cunha injured his hamstring against Burnley. Arsenal’s injury list includes Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, and Kai Havertz.
Off the field, Tottenham is entering a new era. After nearly 25 years as executive chairman, Daniel Levy stepped down last week. The club stated the move aims to “deliver long-term sporting success.” Fans, who have long called for Levy’s exit despite last season’s Europa League triumph, have criticized owner ENIC for neglecting the team. Following Levy’s departure, campaign group Change for Tottenham pledged to ensure that sporting success remains a priority.
Nottingham Forest fans may also voice their opinions after Nuno’s dismissal. Nuno had become a fan favorite for turning Forest from a relegation-threatened side into a team challenging for Champions League qualification last season. Forest face Arsenal on Saturday.