It promises to be the perfect way to lift the curtain on the new domestic season with City and United contesting the first-ever professional derby at the Etihad Stadium.
Weir, of course, is no stranger to big occasions, having figured in both FA Cup and Continental Cup finals for Nick Cushing’s side as well being a key part of the Scotland squad at this summer’s World Cup finals in France.
But she believes the prospect of tackling United at the Etihad will be an extra-special occasion for everyone at the Club.
“I don’t think it gets much bigger, especially as it’s the first professional game between us and it’s at the Etihad Stadium,” said the attacking midfielder.
“It will be a special occasion, but we won’t think about that too much – at the end of the day, it’s a game of football and we want to win, and start the season in the right way.
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“Of course, we’re looking forward to it.
“Our main thought of pre-season has been preparation for that game. That’s where it really counts.
“It’s exciting and we’re looking forward to it.”
Our cross-city rivals will be breaking new ground of their own at the Etihad with match being their first in the Women’s Super League following promotion last season.
And Weir believes that Casey Stoney’s outfit will present a tough challenge and be able to play with freedom.
“United will come in with no pressure – it’s their first season in the WSL and they did well last year,” Weir added.
“They’ve made a few new signings and brought in some good players.
“I’m sure Casey Stoney will have them well-drilled so I know it will be a tough test.
“The Women’s Super League is growing every year and getting more competitive. It’s a tough league to be part of.
“I’m sure we’ll be up for it on the day. We’ll need to be at our best to get a result.”
For club colleague Janine Beckie, meanwhile, the chance to be a part of history and to sample the first professional women’s derby at the Etihad will be an extra-special occasion.
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And the Canadian forward admits she is eagerly looking forward to sample to special passion and rivalry that is engendered by the Manchester derby.
“There are a lot of girls on our team – me included – who are happy to have the opportunity to be part of history in the first professional game against United,” Beckie admitted.
“Growing up in the US, the hype is different around European football so to be part of it and to see how much it means to people is really cool.
“It’s a home-grown rivalry that runs deep with the men’s team so to be able to create that with the women’s team is really good.”
City kick-off the 2019/20 Super League campaign with a mouth-watering Manchester Derby, hosting Manchester United on Saturday 7 September at 3pm at the Etihad Stadium in the first encounter between the sides since the league was formed. Tickets are available and kids go FREE – witness history!
