It was no surprise when David Beckham insisted there is only one team in Manchester – and his loyalty to the Reds is shared in his adopted homeland.
United and City are both in the middle of pre-season tours across the Atlantic in their latest efforts to win over the North American market.
But it is Sir Alex Ferguson’s Premier League champions who have captured the attention of US audiences so far with bigger crowds and greater media interest.
A total of 128,575 fans attended United’s opening two games against New England Revolution and the Seattle Sounders.
But City only managed to pull in 35,325 for their exhibition matches with Club America and the Canadian side Vancouver Whitecaps.
Ferguson’s men have also captured the attention of the US media and The Wall Street Journal has documented United’s tour since they’ve arrived, showing little interest in Roberto Mancini’s men.
Barcelona and Real Madrid are also attempting to unlock the American market.
Tom Cannon, professor of strategic development at Liverpool University, said: . “United have undoubtedly made a bigger impact in America. They’ve been working there a lot longer as they have in most areas.
“City are making a lot more effort now though. The influence of Beckham has made United a massive brand in America.
“America is the only big gap left in the global football market, every other part of the world has been developed.”
