Man Utd 0 Man City 1

United went into this derby knowing that nothing but three points would do. After losing against Hull on the opening day and drawing against Everton last week, United desperately needed a win. Instead, we got more frustration. 

The match began evenly. United actually looked on par with City, maybe even the better side. Then came the first turning point. Foden retaliated after Bruno’s tackle and was sent off. City down to 10. For supporters like us, this was the moment we hoped for. A derby with 11 versus 10. You’d think advantage, right? 

But City adapted. United did not. Chances were rare. Donnarumma wasn’t truly tested. The first half ended goalless. 

In the second, calamity. Another avoidable defensive mistake led to a goal. The goal was initially disallowed  but after a lengthy VAR check, the goal was given. United, 1-0 down. Time to respond. But the reaction never really came. City looked more determined, even with 10. Carrick made substitutions, but creativity still wasn’t enough. 

The few chances we created were either saved and we hit the post twice. Meanwhile, City’s 10 still probed. United’s defense looked vulnerable again, underscoring my point about relying on what, for want of a better word, I have described as ‘expired’ options. Dalot keeps playing no matter who is the manager, and he keeps giving nothing and making mistakes. The Maguire – Martinez partnership, has failed in the past and is failing again. Carrick needs to give Heaven, Yoro and Amass a run as they have proved last season that they can do the job. And they can, in my opinion, turn things round.

And that brings us to the bigger question. Can Carrick rediscover the confidence and clarity he showed last spring? Four points from four matches isn’t good enough. Pressure will grow if results don’t turn. But it’s too early for doom. The hope is still there. So are the standards. And now the task is to start looking like United again.  

Numquam Moribimur…