Manchester United lost the Manchester derby 1-0 at Old Trafford on Sunday, with the match overshadowed by a major post-match row over officiating. City manager Enzo Maresca claimed United captain Bruno Fernandes should have been sent off in the same incident that saw Phil Foden dismissed.
Maresca praised his team's spirit in securing the win with ten men but was clear on his view of the first-half flashpoint. “The decision can be a red card for Foden, but in the same action, it can be a red card for Bruno because he also kicks Phil,” the Italian said. He confirmed he had been told the winning goal was onside, calling the victory “great for spirit and togetherness.”
United fury over offside call
The only goal of the game came from Erling Haaland, but United's defence was incensed that City midfielder Enzo Fernandez was not flagged offside in the build-up. Defender Lisandro Martinez was adamant the officials got it wrong. “He was offside. I went to [Enzo Fernandez] because he was there in front of me, and that’s why Haaland was free,” Martinez said. The Argentine expressed his frustration, calling the error “unacceptable” and stating the team felt they were going home with an “injustice.”
Manager Michael Carrick was equally baffled by the decision to allow the goal, questioning the modern interpretation of the offside rule. “I'm confused. We have people in offices with all the screens for this decision,” Carrick said. “If that's the interpretation of not interfering in the game now, that's really worrying for me. It's a staggering explanation.”
Carrick also addressed the pre-match protests by supporters outside the stadium, expressing his understanding of their frustrations with the club's direction. “I definitely appreciate the supporters. We want to make them happy - they are everything for this football club. I feel for them today,” he added.
The defeat leaves United needing to regroup quickly ahead of their next match. The immediate focus turns to preparing for the next challenge and moving on from a contentious derby day.
