Manchester United struck twice in the final minutes to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday, compounding Pep Guardiola’s woes as his side extended their dismal run to just one win in 11 matches.
City appeared on course for a vital victory when Josko Gvardiol headed in Kevin De Bruyne’s deflected cross in the 36th minute. However, a late collapse allowed Bruno Fernandes to equalise from the penalty spot in the 88th minute before Amad Diallo scored the winner moments later, latching onto a long ball and finishing with precision.
The result leaves Manchester City in fifth place, nine points adrift of league leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. Guardiola shouldered responsibility for his team’s ongoing struggles. “I don’t have defence, I’m the boss, I’m the manager. I have to find a solution, and I don’t find a solution,” he said.
United’s victory was a much-needed boost for Ruben Amorim, who has faced criticism in his short tenure.
Amorim’s bold decision to leave Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho out of the squad paid off, with the manager emphasising the importance of high standards both on and off the pitch.
City’s lack of ruthlessness was evident, with Guardiola’s usually dominant side failing to create significant chances in the second half. Defensive errors ultimately cost them as Matheus Nunes’ poor backpass led to Diallo winning a penalty, converted by Fernandes, and a simple long ball from Lisandro Martinez allowed Diallo to score the winner.
United’s win lifts them to 12th, just five points behind Manchester City, and provides a glimmer of hope for their faltering season.
