Enzo Maresca explains why Man City red card also hurt Manchester United | OneFootball

Enzo Maresca has said he thinks Manchester City's red card made the Manchester derby more difficult for both sides after his team secured a 1-0 win at Manchester United.

City were reduced to 10 men after just 26 minutes when Phil Foden was sent off for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes.

Foden's red card handed the numerical advantage to Manchester United, who had chances either side of half-time, but City stayed in the game.

The Cityzens claimed the points when Erling Haaland scored in controversial circumstances on the hour, securing a win that maintains their perfect start to thePremier League campaign. Haaland was flagged for offside, though VAR overturned the decision. The contentious call came despite Enzo Fernandez, offside when Josko Gvardiol crossed, attempting to make contact with the ball.

City held on late on, with Gianluigi Donnarumma producing a magnificent stoppage-time save from Bryan Mbeumo.

Maresca reflected on a 'special' win and argued Foden's dismissal also worked against United, with City's more compact shape denying the hosts the transition opportunities they thrive on.

“‘The derby is always special’: Maresca hails ‘fantastic’ fans after 10-man City beat United 1-0”

“The noise from the fans was fantastic. At the end it was emotion for the game with 10 players,” Maresca said tomancity.com.

“The derby is always special for fans, the staff, the players and everyone.

“Overall, it was a good performance. With 11 v 11, we had a gameplan that with the red card completely changed.

“I think it was more difficult for us but also them. With 10 players, we didn’t concede any transitions or space in behind and that’s something they love.”