Manchester United were outclassed and humiliated by Manchester City as Pep Guardiola ’s side ran out comfortable three-goal victors at Old Trafford.
Erling Haaland netted a double either side of half time – the first from the penalty spot – to put the visitors in control before Phil Foden added a third. It could have been a much greater margin of victory for the visitors, who were dominant throughout.
United were without their entire first-choice defence and specialist holding midfielder in Casemiro, but this was another insipid performance from Erik ten Hag’s side – who have been left with many more questions than answers. Here are five talking points from another dark day for the Red Devils.
Haaland downs United again
Erling Haaland’s record in Manchester derbies has been hugely hit and miss. His debut against the Red Devils produced a scintillating hat-trick in a 6-3 mauling at the Etihad early last season. However, in the next two meetings, the Norwegian was largely anonymous – unable to find the net in the league loss at Old Trafford or in the FA Cup final.
Haaland was the decisive factor in this game, netting from the spot before his header – having found space to run and head home unmarked – while having several other opportunities to score, including one stunning save from Andre Onana.
Having found the net against Brighton last week and then netted a double against Young Boys in City’s midweek Champions League win, he has truly re-found top form after a mini goal drought. He is now up to 13 goals and counting for City this term.
United fan show dissent
With United trailing by two goals with 17 minutes left on the clock, Alejandro Garnacho replaced Rasmus Hojlund – the home side’s one recognised central striker. Manager Erik ten Hag’s decision was greeted loudly by boos: the home faithful thought the Dane had to stay on the pitch.
A similar incident happened last month, when United were trailing at home to Brighton and subbed off Hojlund for Anthony Martial. Meanwhile, £80million signing Antony was left on the bench – shaking his head.
There is clear growing discontent at Old Trafford and it is unsurprising. This was supposed to be a season when they established themselves as being among the best in the league, but have regressed.
United penalty offences
Red Devils fans will have felt a deep sense of frustration with the penalty awarded against them. Rasmus Hojlund pulled back Rodri, who theatrically went to ground, and it was an infringement. However, multiple offences are committed each matchday without being awarded – and giving Haaland a free hit from 12 yards is a disproportionate punishment.
Indeed, United may feel entitled to point out that Hojlund was similarly blocked off by Arsenal defender Gabriel in a Premier League match earlier in the season. However, this was the fifth penalty conceded by Ten Hag’s side this campaign and for the third match in a row. They may be somewhat unfortunate in that sense, but they must become smarter when defending in their area.
Onana’s redemption arc
There would be no repeat of Andre Onana’s penalty heroics for United in this game, having thwarted Jordan Larsson’s last-minute effort from the spot for Copenhagen on Tuesday. However, this was another impressive display from the Cameroonian, who is settling into life as United’s No.1 after a false start.
His early displays were error-ridden but has since produced multiple solid displays, and he was helpless for City’s goals in this game. Indeed, Onana pulled off several impressive saves in this one – including a remarkable stop to save Haaland’s header on the stroke of half-time.
McTominay’s job on Rodri
Scott McTominay’s inclusion over Mason Mount in the starting line-up was the notable piece of team news for the hosts ahead of kick-off. The Scot has had an extended run of starts under Ten Hag after initially being left out of the selection earlier in the campaign.
His role was clear in this match; to form part of the low midfield block and to attempt to hassle Rodri whenever the Spaniard received the ball further back. Rodri is key for City’s team, but McTominay’s energy and work-rate was designed to disrupt his time on the ball and not allow the visitors time to execute a killer pass from deep.
McTominay may not be the most technical player for United but his intensity and attitude cannot be question. His ‘disruptor’ role on this occasion for the home side made sense, as they looked to turnover the ball and counter their opponents quickly.