Foden's red fuels debate as Haaland finds winner in Manchester

Erling Haaland’s late strike gave Manchester City a 1‑0 win over Manchester United in a highly charged derby, even though Phil Foden was sent off after 23 minutes and City endured more than 70 minutes with ten men at Old Trafford.

The first half turned volatile when Foden lashed out at United captain Bruno Fernandes, prompting referee Michael Oliver to brandish a red card at the 23‑minute mark. United retained a numerical advantage for the remainder of the half, but failed to capitalise before the break.

Controversial first‑half decisions

The goal arrived after an hour when Josko Gvradiol’s cross was deflected by Patrick Dorgu, allowing Haaland to finish on‑side. Enzo Fernandez, miles offside, was judged not to be interfering, a decision that sparked worldwide debate about the VAR call.

The Premier League REPORT confirms the result, and the story is available to UK users only. Fans can share the article and copy the link for further discussion.

United’s missed chances

United struck the woodwork twice before half‑time, with Marcus Rashford and Robbie Mainoo each seeing their shots rebound. In the 95th minute Bryan Mbeumo was denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma, underscoring United’s inability to find a breakthrough.

City’s punishment sparks Haaland chase from Leeds to Madrid, Arsenal and Munich

Elliot Anderson, City’s £116m summer signing, was widely praised as the best player on the pitch, embodying the side’s determination despite the numerical disadvantage.

Enzo Maresca’s start at City has yielded four wins out of four, and he celebrated the victory by joining fans in the away end, a rare display of passion for the former Chelsea boss.

Foden’s dismissal leaves him with more red cards (one) than goals in 2026, casting doubt on his immediate future with the England squad.

At the final whistle, loud boos echoed around Old Trafford as United supporters expressed their frustration, while City’s win highlighted the growing gap between the Manchester giants.