Anderson calls Mainoo a 'top player' after £116m man faces his former United target in derby

Elliot Anderson reserved warm words for Kobbie Mainoo after Manchester City edged a contentious Manchester derby 1-0 at Old Trafford on Sunday, with Erling Haaland’s winning goal later the subject of an officiating admission by Pro Ref.

Anderson, who joined City from Nottingham Forest for £116 million in the summer — a move that blocked Manchester United’s own pursuit of the midfielder — was asked what it was like to face Mainoo. “It was great. It was a good battle. He’s a top, top player, you know, and it’s always tough playing against Kobbie, but yeah, he’s a real good player and a real nice guy,” Anderson said.

The two players built a close relationship during England’s summer World Cup qualifying camp, even though Mainoo did not feature in a single minute of tournament action. That bond was evident in Anderson’s post-match assessment.

Mainoo’s display was one of the few bright spots for United in a difficult afternoon. The Stockport-born midfielder hit the post from distance, registered more touches than any other United player, led the team in successful passes, defensive contributions, and chances created.

Despite those individual numbers, United were largely blunted against a City side reduced to 10 men as early as the 23rd minute when Phil Foden was shown a red card. The hosts managed just 0.54 expected goals before added time, when Bryan Mbeumo spurned a late chance to equalise.

Haaland’s second-half winner was itself mired in controversy. Hours after the final whistle, Pro Ref acknowledged an “error of judgement” in allowing the goal to stand, conceding that an on-field review should have been triggered because Enzo Fernandez, positioned offside, had interfered with play.

United had identified Anderson as their primary midfield target last summer but were unwilling to match City’s bid. After missing out, the club moved to reshape their engine room by signing Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, and Carlos Baleba for a combined £155 million.