Shearer says Fernandes deserved red card alongside Foden in Manchester derby controversy

Alan Shearer has called for Bruno Fernandes to have been shown a red card alongside Phil Foden in Manchester City’s victory over Manchester United, arguing that the United captain’s role in the incident made his own dismissal equally warranted.

Foden was given a straight red card by referee Michael Oliver after kicking out at Fernandes during the derby, but footage showed Fernandes had kicked the City midfielder first before going to ground dramatically. Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, Shearer was unsparing in his assessment of the United skipper’s conduct.

“I thought the way Bruno Fernandes went down was pathetic,” Shearer said. “He helped get Foden off and, yes, he’s kicked out at him a little bit but Bruno Fernandes has also kicked Phil Foden. If Phil Foden reacts in the same way as Bruno Fernandes did then both get red cards. So, for me, either both are red or neither of them are. He’s kicked out, so he’s stupid, OK? But Bruno Fernandes has done the same thing — so for me, without doubt, they both should’ve been a red card if Michael Oliver thinks Phil Foden’s is a red card.”

City manager Enzo Maresca echoed that view in his post-match interview. “Phil’s card is a red card, but I also think the same action is a red card by Bruno,” he said. “I think reviewing the action, and I reviewed it immediately, it is a clear red card for Phil because it is a reaction. But you can also see Bruno [foul Foden]. But anyway, it is what it is. Red card, but we won.”

Maresca also reflected on how the dismissal reshaped the contest. “We had a plan for 11 vs. 11, but after the red card, the game completely changed, but also for them. They love transition and space in behind, but the game became more difficult — we just drop, no space in behind and no more transition, which is why the game was also more difficult for them.”

The Foden red card was not the only flashpoint to generate controversy. Erling Haaland’s winning goal stood despite Enzo Fernandez being in an offside position when he attempted a diving header in the build-up. Pro Ref have since admitted a mistake was made and the goal should have been ruled out.

Foden is now set to serve a three-match ban for the straight red card offence, barring a successful City appeal. He is expected to miss the League Cup tie against Norwich City, the home Premier League match against Sunderland on 20 September, and the away fixture at Liverpool on 11 October.