Manchester is shining once again in sky blue. Pep Guardiola’s men convincingly defeated Ruben Amorim’s side with a 3-0 scoreline. It’s City’s second victory of the season and United’s second defeat.
Under a rainy sky, City knew it had to strike hard against a rival in doubt. Despite a dazzling win on Matchday 1 at Wolverhampton, Manchester City had then lost its following two games, while United came into the derby fresh off a victory before the international break. City’s concerns were compounded by a wave of injuries that hit Rayan Cherki, Rayan Aït Nouri, and Omar Marmoush among others, three players who were supposed to be central to the renewal Guardiola envisioned.
And yet, on the pitch, the absence of those players wasn’t felt, as the Sky Blues completely outclassed their rivals 3-0. The opener came after a brilliant solo run from Jérémy Doku, who left Luke Shaw behind before delivering a cross onto the head of Phil Foden, who is gradually rediscovering the form he had in the 2023-2024 season.
After a difficult first half, Manchester United pushed higher and stronger, creating chances but lacking the finishing touch. On a counterattack, City punished United with an exceptional, delicate finish from clinical striker Erling Haaland.
Haaland then grabbed his brace in the 68th minute after a 60-yard sprint, killing off any hope for the Red Devils. Manchester City defended deeper, gave up possession, and chose to counter more effectively against a United side whose backline collapsed in worrying fashion.
The doubts surrounding Ruben Amorim have deepened, and his days at Carrington could already be numbered.
