Match Summary
Manchester City claimed a dramatic 1-0 win over Manchester United in the 199th Manchester derby at Old Trafford on Sunday, September 13, 2026. Erling Haaland's controversial second-half strike proved to be the difference, with City securing the points despite playing more than an hour with 10 men following Phil Foden's first-half red card.
The result was Enzo Maresca's first win over United since replacing Pep Guardiola as City boss, while it was a tough result for Michael Carrick in his first full home game in charge of United.
Key Moments
Phil Foden Sent Off
In the 23rd minute, referee Michael Oliver showed Phil Foden a straight red card after he kicked out at United captain Bruno Fernandes. The flashpoint began when Fernandes kicked the ball into Foden's midriff while Foden was on the ground; Foden reacted by kicking back, and VAR confirmed enough contact to warrant a dismissal. Replays fueled debate over whether Fernandes should also have been sanctioned for the initial kick.
United Hit the Woodwork Twice
Despite their numerical advantage, Manchester United struggled to convert pressure into clear chances. Marcus Rashford struck the post before half-time, and Kobbie Mainoo hit the frame of the goal again early in the second half. Both efforts summed up a frustrating afternoon for the hosts, who lacked a cutting edge in the final third.
Haaland's Disputed Winner
On the hour mark, Erling Haaland gave 10-man Manchester City the lead. Josko Gvardiol's low cross deflected into Haaland's path, and the Norwegian finished clinically. The goal was checked by VAR because Enzo Fernández appeared to be in an offside position in the build-up, but officials ruled he did not interfere with play, and the goal stood — a decision that sparked major controversy among pundits and United fans.
Donnarumma's Late Save
United pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages, and Bruno Fernandes threaded a promising pass through to Bryan Mbeumo, but City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma produced a strong save to preserve the clean sheet and secure the win.
What This Means for the Table
The win keeps Manchester City perfect through four Premier League matches, level on points with defending champions Arsenal at the top of the table. For Manchester United, the defeat leaves the club with just four points from four games, deepening early-season frustration under new manager Michael Carrick and adding to off-pitch tension around ownership and club operations.
Talking Points
- Was the red card fair? Pundits including Gary Neville argued Foden's reaction crossed the line, but questioned why Fernandes escaped punishment for the initial kick.
- Should the Haaland goal have counted? Former players and commentators were split on whether Enzo Fernández's offside positioning should have ruled out City's winner.
- United's finishing woes continue. Two shots off the woodwork highlight a recurring theme for Carrick's side early this season — created chances not being converted.
Final Score
Manchester United 0-1 Manchester City Goal: Haaland (60') Red card: Foden (23')
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