Erling Haaland of Manchester City celebrates his goal. Photograph: Alex Livesey/Danehouse/Getty Images
Manchester City claimed bragging rights in the first Manchester derby of the 2026/27 Premier League season after beating Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Erling Haaland scored the decisive goal in the 60th minute to hand City all three points in a tense encounter that saw both sides create opportunities.
The victory maintained Manchester City’s perfect start to the league campaign under new manager Enzo Maresca, who celebrated a memorable first derby victory.
The match took a dramatic turn in the 23rd minute when City midfielder Phil Foden was shown a straight red card for kicking out at United captain Bruno Fernandes following an altercation.
Despite being reduced to 10 men for much of the match, City remained disciplined and continued to threaten the United defence. The decision to send off Foden sparked considerable debate, with pundits and former players divided over whether the England international deserved a red card.
United struggled to make their numerical advantage count and were eventually punished when Haaland broke the deadlock shortly after the hour mark.
The Norwegian striker finished from a deflected Josko Gvardiol cross, with VAR checking a possible offside before confirming the goal.
Manchester United pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, with Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo among those coming close, but City’s defence held firm.
The defeat leaves United frustrated after failing to take advantage of City’s early setback, while Maresca’s side leave Old Trafford with another important victory and four wins from four league matches.
