Manchester United beat Manchester City 2-0 at Old Trafford as Michael Carrick marked his caretaker return with a derby win that dents City’s title hopes.
Manchester United claimed a memorable 2-0 derby victory over Manchester City at Old Trafford. It was Michael Carrick’s first match back as caretaker manager. Second half goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu sealed the win. The result lifted United to fourth in the Premier League.
Old Trafford was in full voice after weeks of unrest. United matched City’s intensity from the opening whistle. The hosts pressed high and disrupted City’s rhythm. It set the tone for a disciplined and aggressive display.
United started on the front foot and created early chances. Harry Maguire struck the crossbar with a third minute header. Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes both had goals ruled out for offside. City struggled to cope with United’s movement between the lines.
City dominated possession but lacked cutting edge. Bernardo Silva headed over from close range before the break. Erling Haaland was isolated and well marshalled. Lisandro Martinez and Maguire controlled the central areas.
The breakthrough arrived in the 65th minute. Bruno Fernandes led a sharp counter attack and released Mbeumo. The forward finished calmly across Gianluigi Donnarumma. It was his seventh league goal of the season.
United doubled their lead 11 minutes later. Matheus Cunha drove down the right and cut the ball back. Dorgu reacted quickest to turn it home. City defender Rico Lewis was caught flat footed.
Donnarumma kept City in the contest with several fine saves. He denied Casemiro, Diallo and Dorgu during sustained pressure. Despite his efforts, City rarely threatened at the other end. Senne Lammens was largely untroubled.
United recorded only their third clean sheet of the league season. Maguire and Martinez neutralised Haaland throughout. On the one clear chance, Martinez made a crucial block. City managed just one shot on target.
Bruno Fernandes was central to United’s best moments. He provided the assist for the opening goal and dictated transitions. Casemiro dominated midfield battles against Rodri. Kobbie Mainoo also impressed alongside him.
Diallo caused constant problems down the flank. He later hit the post as United pushed for a third. Three United goals were disallowed for offside. The scoreline could have been heavier.
City are now four matches without a Premier League win. They risk falling nine points behind leaders Arsenal. Pep Guardiola’s side sit second with 43 points from 22 games. United move to 35 points after the win.
United limited City to few clear chances. The hosts had more shots on target despite less possession. City failed to score for the second straight league game. Their title momentum has stalled.
Manchester United travel to Arsenal on Sunday, 25 January. The match could further shape the top four race. Carrick will look to build on this momentum. Confidence has returned quickly.
Manchester City switch focus to Europe next. They face Bodø or Glimt away in the Champions League on Tuesday, 20 January. Their next league match is at home to Wolves on Saturday, 24 January.
