Maresca claims Fernandes deserved red card as City's derby win sparks VAR fury

Manchester City claimed a hard-fought Manchester derby victory at Old Trafford on Sunday, with Erling Haaland’s goal proving the difference against a United side who had already seen Phil Foden sent off in the 23rd minute — yet the result was almost immediately overshadowed by a fierce row over refereeing decisions.

City manager Enzo Maresca defended his players while conceding that referee Michael Oliver was correct to dismiss Foden, but argued that United captain Bruno Fernandes should have walked alongside him. “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,” Maresca said. He added that he had spoken to the fourth official and been told Haaland’s winning goal was onside, calling it “a fantastic win” for “spirit and togetherness.”

United defender Lisandro Martinez was far less composed in his assessment, insisting the result was an “injustice” and pointing to City midfielder Enzo Fernandez, whom he believed was in an offside position before the ball reached Haaland. “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. “Every season they come to our club, they explain the rules for an hour and a half, and they look so confident. And then you have five or six people making this mistake. It’s unacceptable because this is the best league in the world.”

United interim manager Michael Carrick echoed that frustration, questioning the logic of the offside interpretation that allowed the goal to stand. “I’m confused. We put things in place in the game now — we have people in offices with all the screens for this decision,” he 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 staged by United supporters outside Old Trafford, with fans voicing anger over season-ticket pricing and the club’s broader 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 said.

The result leaves City with a significant psychological edge in the rivalry, while United must now contend with the fallout from both the defeat and the ongoing unrest among their fanbase.