Maresca questions Bruno Fernandes after derby red card

Enzo Maresca made the Manchester derby about the red card, not the result. Phil Foden was dismissed in the 23rd minute for violent conduct, Erling Haaland's goal stood after a lengthy VAR review, and Maresca argued that Bruno Fernandes should also have gone for the same incident as Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 at Manchester United vs Manchester City.

Maresca's red-card argument

"It can be a red card [for Phil Foden], but I think in the same action it can be a red card for Bruno [Fernandes], in the same action," Maresca said. He also called it "the emotion of the derby after [winning with] 10 men" and added that he was "happy" with what he described as a normal reaction.

That was the line that framed his post-match view. Maresca said the game changed after the red card and praised the spirit, effort and togetherness of his players, but the focus stayed on the refereeing decision. Manchester City moved onto 12 points and stayed level with Arsenal at the top of the Premier League after four games, but Maresca chose to argue the officiating rather than celebrate the table.

Haaland's goal and the VAR check

The other flashpoint was Erling Haaland's winner. Maresca said, "I think it was onside clearly so it's good," after the goal survived a lengthy VAR review.

That left the derby decided by one goal and one major disciplinary call. Phil Foden lasted only 23 minutes, Bruno Fernandes was central to the same incident in Maresca's view, and Manchester City left Old Trafford with a result that will be remembered as much for the red card as for Haaland's finish.