Manchester City underpinned their top position in the Premier League – so did Manchester. United held on for just 15 minutes in the 4-1 win, thanks in part to Kevin De Bruyne.
With the stricken Cristiano Ronaldo out, the “father of counter-pressing”, as Guardiola had dubbed Rangnick in the build-up, tried his hand at the league leaders almost caught by Liverpool. And initially United did really well at the Etihad. Although De Bruyne had irresistibly fired in City’s first attack (5th), the Red Devils also held their own in terms of possession. They also became dangerous, Fred missed the equaliser (8th).
When Sancho finally made it 1:1 with a 17-metre flick after a counterattack (22nd), the balance of power had already shifted. The home side stepped up a gear and dominated the derby in typical dynamic style, and at the end of a triple chance, double player De Bruyne restored the old distance (28th). Mahrez missed the third goal before the break (45.)
No United finish in second half – CL in danger
City’s superiority continued after the change of ends. McTominay and Co. threw themselves into several goals – United had none of their own. Bernardo Silva (49.) and Mahrez (57.) sniffed at the 3:1 and with it the preliminary decision for the basically better home side. But it was still a long time coming.
The close score meant that United had the chance to equalise again for a long time – but the visitors were unable to create any real opportunities. The champions were too strong and finally turned into the winner’s circle when Mahrez headed a De Bruyne corner into the net from the back (68th). That alone was the decisive factor, because United did not manage to score a single goal in the second period. Nevertheless, Mahrez added another late goal (90.+3) on a pass from substitute Gündogan.
While top-flight City kept Liverpool at bay (three points behind before the match), the air is getting thinner for United in the race for fourth place. Arsenal have passed the Red Devils – and still have three games in hand.
