Manchester Derby: Who Makes the All-Time Combined XI?

MANCHESTER, England — As the Manchester Derby approaches this weekend, fans eagerly anticipate another chapter in one of football’s fiercest rivalries. With Manchester United facing Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday, conversations surrounding the teams’ legacies have reignited debates over an all-time combined XI.

Over the years, both clubs have established themselves as powerhouses in the Premier League, boasting an array of legendary players. United’s storied past features icons like Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs, and Cristiano Ronaldo, while City counters with contemporary superstars such as Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland.

According to Sports Illustrated, here’s their all-time combined XI featuring a selection of the best players from both sides.

Goalkeeper: Peter Schmeichel — Widely regarded as the greatest Premier League goalkeeper, Schmeichel secured five league titles, three FA Cups, and a Champions League trophy during his time with Manchester United. Edwin van der Sar also deserves mention for his exceptional contributions to the team.

Right Back: Gary Neville — With eight Premier League titles and numerous cups to his name, Neville is selected over current standout Kyle Walker for his enduring legacy.

Center Backs: Rio Ferdinand and Vincent Kompany — Ferdinand, a key figure in United’s defense, pairs with Kompany, celebrated as City’s best defender ever, creating a formidable partnership.

Left Back: Denis Irwin — A joint record for Irish players in history, Irwin’s seven Premier League titles showcase his overlooked brilliance

Midfielders: Kevin De Bruyne, Roy Keane, and Paul Scholes — De Bruyne, second in all-time assists only to Ryan Giggs, joins Keane, known for his fierce tackling, and Scholes, renowned for his creativity, to form a powerful midfield trio.

Forwards: Ryan Giggs on the left, Wayne Rooney in the center, and Cristiano Ronaldo on the right — The all-time assists leader in the Premier League, Giggs brings extensive experience, while Rooney’s legacy as a key United player shines through, despite leaving Aguero out of the lineup. Completing the attack is Ronaldo, celebrated for his phenomenal achievements during his time with United.

As both teams prepare for Sunday’s match, fans are encouraged to weigh in on their combined XI selections. In the current standings, Manchester City sits in fifth place while Manchester United is trailing at 13th, a far cry from the expectations of both clubs’ supporters.

Max Mallow, an editor at Sports Illustrated Soccer, emphasized on social media the excitement surrounding the derby and invited fans to share their picks for the combined lineup. The outcome of this weekend’s clash could serve as a reminder of the storied rivalry and the legacy of both clubs in Premier League history.