Haaland seals derby win for 10-man Manchester City as Maresca keeps perfect record

Erling Haaland scored a controversial winner as 10-man Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 to preserve Enzo Maresca’s perfect start as manager.

Haaland converted Josko Gvardiol’s deflected cross in the 60th minute, although the goal was initially ruled out for offside and prompted a lengthy VAR review.

The Norwegian was eventually judged to have been in an onside position when the ball was played. Enzo Fernandez had also moved towards the cross from an offside position, but VAR concluded he had not interfered with play.

The decision provoked anger from United, who had enjoyed a numerical advantage for more than an hour after City midfielder Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute.

Foden received a straight red card for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes. The United captain had fouled Foden while he was on the ground, before Foden retaliated by throwing both legs towards Fernandes.

City protested against the dismissal, but referee Michael Oliver’s decision was upheld by VAR.

United had spells of pressure after going a player up but struggled to turn that advantage into an equaliser. Marcus Rashford’s free-kick struck the post, while Kobbie Mainoo hit the woodwork shortly after half-time.

Gianluigi Donnarumma was required to make an important late intervention, producing an excellent stoppage-time save to deny Bryan Mbeumo. Fernandes had played Mbeumo through on goal.

City remained a threat despite their disadvantage. Rayan Cherki had an effort blocked, while Fernandez went close when his 20-yard shot was pushed on to the post by Senne Lammens.

Haaland also had a chance to double the visitors’ lead after meeting a dangerous free-kick from Fernandez, but City survived United’s late pressure to secure the win.

The result represents a significant early statement from Maresca in his first season following Pep Guardiola’s departure. City remain perfect in the league and move level with Arsenal on 12 points.

United, meanwhile, stay 13th with four points from their opening four matches. The defeat is their third dropped result of the campaign.

The match was played amid supporter anger over the club’s handling of its ticket-touting investigation. A banner at Old Trafford read: “The way you treat us is a disgrace.”

Maresca celebrated at the final whistle, running towards the visiting supporters after City had completed a derby victory despite playing with 10 men for more than 70 minutes.