Bruno Fernandes faces disciplinary debate after Foden’s red card
Comments Sport Connor O'Neill, Senior Sports Content Creator, posted the story at 19:37 on 14 Sep 2026, View the images. In the Manchester derby, Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes was at the centre of a clash that saw Man City’s Phil Foden sent off in the first half, sparking a disciplinary debate.
Bruno Fernandes has been told he should have been punished for his role in Phil Foden’s red card, which came as Foden’s side secured a 1‑0 victory at Old Trafford in the first half ON Sunday.
The England international kicked out at Fernandes after being fouled by the United captain, but replays showed Fernandes had appeared to kick Foden first.
Officials question the sanction
Former PGMOL chief and FIFA referee Keith Hackett said, “I think this is an interesting one. The minimum that the Man United player should have received is a yellow card because his actions were reckless. But it was a kick, so I’m actually saying he should have received a sanction… I don’t think there was any excessive force and I generally don’t think there was malice.”
Club bosses weigh in
City boss Enzo Maresca, speaking after the game, argued that the incident merited a red card for both players, adding, “I reviewed the action immediately after the red card on the bench. It’s a clear red card for Phil, because it’s a reaction, but you can also see Bruno’s intention. So for me, yes, it’s a red card for Phil, but it’s also a red card for Bruno.”
Former United skipper Roy Keane, speaking at half‑time, described the clash as violent conduct, saying, “Bruno goes in, tackles him, clearly fouls him and gives him a little boot on the floor. Foden gets up, does react, and he’s now sent off. I’m guessing it’s classed as violent conduct, but to me Bruno’s the one who’s violent here.”
Keane later warned that all players belong to the PFA, urging teammates to look after each other and questioning the referee’s decision, noting the earlier head‑butt incident involving Kyle Walker.
No official sanction has been announced, leaving the disciplinary question unresolved and the debate continuing across US media.
Image: (Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images)