Haaland proud of personality and character in Manchester derby win | OneFootball

Erling Haaland was full of praise for 10-man City's determination, grit and character to fight and overcome Manchester United 1-0 in the Premier League at Old Trafford.

Match Report

Haaland strike wins 199th Manchester derby for resolute 10-man City

Enzo Maresca’s side were dealt a heavy blow after just 23 minutes of the 199th Manchester derby, as Phil Foden was dismissed for violent conduct by referee Michael Oliver.

The Blues had to dig deep and despite the hosts hitting the woodwork twice, we made the breakthough on the hour mark through Haaland, who struck his ninth goal in eight top-flight appearances against the Red Devils.

GALLERY: MANCHESTER IS BLUE!

Enzo Fernández then saw his effort touched onto the post by United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, before City shot-stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Bryan Mbeumo a last-gasp equaliser with a splendid save.

“It hasn’t happened a lot in my lifetime to go down to 10 men so it’s kind of a new experience to win with 10 men. It’s amazing to be honest,” began Haaland in his interview after the game.

“We had to lay low, which is not ideal because we like to keep the ball and like to try and score goals. These times you have to go low and take your chances when possible and we managed to do it well.

“This shows personality and character to keep the ball, away at Old Trafford with 10 men. That is personality. We had to change the plan a bit, Enzo [Maresca] gave us a plan and we played a bit differently to our strengths. Counter attack a bit more.

“For me I have to be there for the chance, and be ready to execute. And we need fighters in the team, which we have plenty of, look at our midfield. If there’s something they like to do, it is to fight. I’m super happy with everyone and so proud of everyone.

“What a save [by Donnarumma]. I don’t know if it was offside or not, what a save. What a keeper he is. This wolf in the goal, he looks a bit like a wolf, to have him in goal gives you so much confidence.

“We’re so lucky to have him. He’s a matchwinner. All praise to him.”

Despite Foden being sent off and not having any further part to play on the pitch, Haaland revealed that the boyhood Blue was a big presence in the dressing room at the half-time interval.

“He encouraged us to keep going and to stay positive. Even with 10 men we’re still a good team,” he continued. “We showed that today. I think we became even sharper with 10 men. We need to play like that all the time even with 11 as well.

“I normally don’t go offside. I looked at the gaffer and he gave me a thumbs up so I knew it was a goal and prepared to go and celebrate.

“This is one of the better feelings because of the occasion and 10 men, especially for how long at Old Trafford, it’s a difficult task.

“To do that with 10 men is so nice and for the fans how they enjoyed themselves. I saw the look on the faces of the supporters, and it is amazing to see.”