Manchester United painted the city red with a commanding 2-0 victory over Manchester City, marking a spectacular start to the Michael Carrick era. In a high-stakes derby at Old Trafford, the Red Devils displayed a level of tactical discipline and clinical finishing that left Pep Guardiola’s side searching for answers.
The first half was a cagey affair, with United coming closest when Harry Maguire’s powerful header rattled the crossbar. Despite City dominating possession, United’s backline, marshaled by Lisandro Martínez, remained impenetrable, frustrating Erling Haaland and Phil Foden throughout the opening 45 minutes.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 65th minute. Bryan Mbeumo, returning from AFCON duty, ignited a swift counter-attack before exchanging a slick one-two with Bruno Fernandes and slotting the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma. The Stretford End erupted as United capitalized on their transitional threat.
The points were secured in the 76th minute through Patrick Dorgu. The young Dane ghosted into the box to meet an inch-perfect cross from substitute Matheus Cunha, cushioning his finish into the net to double the lead. United even had a third goal by Mason Mount ruled out for a marginal offside, but the damage was already done.
What It Means: This victory vaults Manchester United back into the top-four race and ends City’s 13-match unbeaten league run. For City, the defeat is a massive blow to their title aspirations, leaving them trailing leaders Arsenal by a significant margin.