Aris Thessalonikis vs Iraklis 1908 - Super League 1

The Super League 1 returns to the home ground on September 19, 2026, where Aris Thessalonikis and Iraklis 1908 will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. That coronation came from City's £116m summer signing Elliot Anderson - and has been hotly debated in the build-up to the Manchester derby Super Sunday showdown at Old Trafford, which you can watch live on Sky Sports.

A glance at the Super League 1 table tells the story: Aris Thessalonikis in 7th and Iraklis 1908 in 8th, with positions to defend and places to climb. Aris Thessalonikis have been picking up results at a respectable clip, LLWW over their last five with a season win rate of 50%. Iraklis 1908 have blown hot and cold, D across their last five and a season win rate of 25%. Their respective approaches this season have differed noticeably, and the tactical contrast could prove telling. Paulo Fonseca's men are still smarting from their Champions League play-off exit but now sit third in the table.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Aris Thessalonikis favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Iraklis 1908 are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. It isn't clear yet that this will definitely be a winger, with Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana flexible over their attack.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer B. Varga, with 4 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. But former Reds forward Teddy Sheringham believes Tielemans isn’t good enough to be the midfielder United needed.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. On balance, Aris Thessalonikis look well-placed to claim all three points, and a 2-1 home win would not come as a surprise. With positions in the Super League 1 table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. It is understood that his next move is most likely to take him abroad - and potentially to the Premier League.