Derby days are a different breed, and this one sure did not disappoint. Instead of asking myself “what if?”, I now ask myself “what’s next?”.
United 2. City 0.
Not just a result. A statement.
Coming into the derby, the season had already been defined by hesitation. Empty promises always ending in a draw or a loss. So when the fixture vs. City arrived, we needed to know: can this team finally compose itself when it mattered most? I really hoped it could.
From the first whistle, the difference was clear.
City had possession, as expected, but United had intent. They were pressing. They were toying with them. The midfield stepped up together, and for once, we weren’t the ones. chasing shadows. Instead of retreating, we waited. The old Manchester United counter-attack tactic was back. Defend, wait for the right moment, and GO.
Tactically, it was one of the most disciplined performances we’ve seen this season. United were happy to let City circulate the ball wide, forcing their play into areas that could be properly managed. One dangerous header hitting the post by Maguire and 2 disallowed goals from Amad and Bruno in the first half, those were some serious chances.
The breakthrough came in the second half, and it felt earned.
After earlier moments that hinted at what was coming, chances created, goals ruled out, United finally found the opening.
A move built on patience, positioning, and teamwork ended with the ball in the net, and Old Trafford erupted not just in celebration, but in realization: We are here. We are up.
The goal, coming from a counter-attack, saw Bruno delaying a pass to the Cameroonian, who took only one look up at the goal, and placed it perfectly out of reach from Donnaruma.
City tried to respond, but this time, we didn’t show any fear. The structure held. The back line remained aggressive. Play started from creative midfielders. And when the second goal arrived, it felt decisive. We knew it was game over.
What stood out most wasn’t just the goals, even though they conceded a total of 5 times, it was the cohesion. Players knew their roles, they played with purpose, they won duels with a fiery passion. This was a derby to be proud of.
In the context of the 25/26 Premier League journey, this result matters. It didn’t fix our previous mishaps and it doesn’t mean we have to take the next fixture any less seriously. What it proves is that when the entire team sticks to the plan and believes, they can win any game.
That’s the benchmark now.
I’ll write it again, United 2. City 0.
Three points earned. Confidence restored.
And for the first time this season, the journey feels like it’s moving forward.
Featured Image Photo Credits @ Darren Staples/AFP/Getty Images
