Manchester City secured a 1-0 victory over 10-man Manchester United as Erling Haaland’s second-half goal extended Enzo Maresca’s perfect start as manager.
Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute after kicking out at United captain Bruno Fernandes, but United failed to capitalise on their numerical advantage.
Haaland broke the deadlock in the 60th minute, sweeping home Josko Gvardiol’s deflected cross after a VAR review ruled the Norwegian onside and Enzo Fernandez, who attempted to head the ball before Haaland, not to have interfered with play.
United boss Michael Carrick questioned the decision, while Maresca acknowledged that Foden’s red card was deserved but argued Fernandes should also have been dismissed.
“It’s a kind of new experience to win with 10 men. It’s amazing, I have to be honest,” Haaland said.
United came close to equalising before and after half-time, with Marcus Rashford’s free-kick hitting the post and Kobbie Mainoo also striking the woodwork.
Fernandez nearly doubled City’s lead late on, but his effort was pushed onto the post by Senne Lammens, while Haaland missed another chance from a dangerous Fernandez free-kick.
United pushed for an equaliser in stoppage time, but Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Bryan Mbeumo with a fine save.
The defeat leaves United eight points behind City and defending champions Arsenal, with Carrick’s side yet to find their footing in the Premier League.
City, meanwhile, joined Arsenal and Chelsea on 12 points after another statement victory under Maresca.
