Haaland leads 10-man Man City to win against Man Utd

Erling Haaland helped 10-man Manchester City secure a 1-0 win over Manchester United. This happened even after Phil Foden got a red card in the first half. The victory marks a great start for Enzo Maresca as the new manager.

Foden kicked out at United's captain, Bruno Fernandes, in the 23rd minute. This left City with a tough challenge ahead.

But City showed they could handle it. The midfield duo, Elliot Anderson and Enzo Fernandez, who cost nearly £250 million, played well together.

Haaland scored the only goal, which came with some debate. Fernandez was not seen as interfering when he tried to head the ball before it reached Haaland.

This loss adds to a poor start for United in the Premier League. They are now eight points behind City and defending champions Arsenal.

For Maresca, this win sends a strong message. It eases concerns about City’s performance after Pep Guardiola’s successful time in charge.

Fans created a lively atmosphere before the match. This energy came from United supporters being upset with their own team, not just the rivalry.

A recent crackdown on ticket scalping has angered many fans. Innocent supporters faced the risk of punishment.

In the Stretford End, instead of the usual banners, there was only one that said: “The way you treat us is a disgrace.”

United started stronger in the match but struggled after Foden's red card.

City believed Fernandes should have been sent off too. He fouled Foden and then kicked him.

Foden’s reaction was not good either. He raised both legs into Fernandes’s midsection.

Kobbie Mainoo blocked a shot from Rayan Cherki that was heading for goal. Youri Tielemans nearly scored an own goal when he misjudged Antoine Semenyo’s cross, but City looked more dangerous.

Marcus Rashford came close to scoring his first goal for United since December 2024. His free-kick hit the post, which was their best chance before halftime.

After the break, Mainoo hit the woodwork again. His shot from distance bounced off the post and safely into Gianluigi Donnarumma's hands.

Then, City struck in the 60th minute. Haaland skillfully converted Josko Gvardiol’s deflected cross.

A VAR check confirmed Haaland was onside and that Fernandez did not interfere with the play.

City almost doubled their lead when Fernandez’s shot was pushed onto the post by Senne Lammens.

Haaland should have scored again when he connected with Fernandez’s low free-kick.

But City did not pay for missing those chances. United could not take advantage of being a man up until the last minute of stoppage time.

Fernandes made a great pass to Bryan Mbeumo, but Donnarumma made a fantastic save to keep City ahead.

Maresca ran down the touchline in joy at the final whistle.

After a tight title race last season, Arsenal and City seem to be a step above the rest again.

Both teams have 12 points, while Chelsea, Liverpool, and United are already falling behind.