Manchester United and Man City fans warned over major travel disruption before upcoming fixtures

Manchester United and Manchester City supporters face significant travel disruption as major Metrolink engineering works affect services across Greater Manchester until November.

Fans heading to Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium have been urged to plan ahead, with several fixtures taking place before normal tram services resume.

Metrolink works will impact Man Utd and Man City matches for two weeks

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has confirmed that no trams will run on the Altrincham, Trafford Centre and Eccles lines until November 1st, with services expected to resume at the start of operations on November 2nd.

The East Didsbury and Manchester Airport lines are also affected, with trams terminating at Firswood. Passengers must then use replacement buses to continue into the city centre, while Rochdale line services are terminating at Exchange Square.

The disruption stems from a major engineering project at Deansgate-Castlefield and Trafford Bar, where around 4,000 metres of track is being replaced.

Some sections are approximately 30 years old, with TfGM expecting the work to improve journey times once completed.

The affected period includes several Manchester football fixtures.

City's Champions League match against AEK Athens on October 20th, and United's Premier League meeting with AFC Bournemouth on October 25th will both take place during the works.

City supporters will also need to plan ahead for the Carabao Cup match against Brighton & Hove Albion on October 28th and the Premier League fixture against the same opponents on October 31st.

TfGM has advised supporters to check its dedicated matchday travel information and plan journeys through the Bee Network app or website.

Some minor tram route changes in the city centre will remain in place until November 4th.

FGG says: Football fans should consider alternatives to the Metrolink

With multiple lines disrupted, supporters should avoid assuming their usual tram route will be available on matchday.

Replacement buses, Bee Network bus services and trains are among the alternatives recommended by TfGM, although fans should check routes and timings before setting off, as well as our guides on the best ways to get to both Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium.

Those travelling to Old Trafford should pay particular attention to the disruption around the Trafford and Altrincham corridors, while City supporters should check their options for reaching the Etihad and travelling home after evening fixtures.

Allowing extra time and considering an earlier departure could help reduce the risk of missing kick-off.