Manchester United suffered defeat in the 197th derby against Manchester City.
The disappointing start to the 2025/26 season continues for Manchester United, with just four points to show for from as many games.
After a tight start to the game, Manchester City took advantage of poor defending from United in the 18th minute when Phil Foden scored a header to make it 1-0.
United collapsed in the second half as Erling Haaland completed a brace, meaning he has scored eight goals in Manchester derbies since moving to the Premier League.
Here is what we learned from a disappointing Manchester derby as City won 3-0.
Benjamin Sesko holding off Ruben Diaz
Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
We need to talk about Bruno Fernandes’ role in midfield
Since the beginning of the season, we have seen Bruno Fernandes play a more disciplined role in midfield, similar to what he played in the Europa League final defeat against Tottenham.
There is little evidence that it suits Fernandes or the team, yet Ruben Amorim seems to be persisting in it, while the likes of Kobbie Mainoo start games as substitutes.
Fernandes is capable of creating big moments in the game, but United needed someone to help Manuel Ugarte control the game.
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Once Mainoo came off the bench, Fernandes pushed into his best role further forward.
Lack of quality in the final third
United were sloppy in possession of the ball, but the lack of quality in the final third made it difficult for Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo to make a difference. It didn’t help that Amad Diallo had one of his quieter games.
United must address their problems in midfield, which undoubtedly contribute to the lack of quality we are witnessing in the final third.
Even though Casemiro’s main job is to protect the defence, his ability on the ball was missing for most of the match, while he sat on the bench.
Harry Maguire reaches milestone
Harry Maguire came off the bench in the second half, with the scoreline at 2-0, but the damage had already been done.
The only real positive from today’s trip to the Etihad was Maguire reaching a milestone to make his 250th appearance for the club. Take from that what you will.
Maguire, like Ayden Heaven, may be asking what he needs to do to get into the team after Luke Shaw’s performance.
Man Utd negatively impacted by injuries
The two main absentees today were Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount, who have both featured heavily in the matches leading up to the derby.
There is no guarantee that both players would have started the game, but Amorim was limited for attacking options as a result.
The sooner Cunha and Mount return, the better.
Chelsea clash feels crucial
After such a poor start to the new season, United need a big win, and it must come next week when Chelsea visit Old Trafford.
Enzo Maresca’s side dropped points against Brentford on Saturday and there will be they for the taking.
Unless the Red Devils improve quickly, it could shape up to be another long season for United fans.