Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has addressed rumours of his departure from the club after he lifted the FA Cup on Saturday (May 25) at Wembley Stadium. Ten Hag&nbsp;is rumoured&nbsp;to get sacked from his Manchester United managerial role after the club endured a tough season in his second spell. Manchester United beat arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final 2-1 and clinched their 13th title in the historic tournament.&nbsp;

<h2>Ten Hag addresses&nbsp;rumours</h2>

"Two trophies in two years is not bad, three&nbsp;finals in two years is not bad,"&nbsp;Ten Hag told a postmatch news conference Saturday.

"If they&nbsp;don't&nbsp;want me,&nbsp;then&nbsp;I go somewhere else to win trophies because that is what I do."

Goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo in the first half were enough for United to exact revenge on Manchester City&nbsp;having&nbsp;lost in the FA Cup final&nbsp;in&nbsp;2023.&nbsp;Although Man City pulled one goal back late in the contest, there was no joy for Pep&nbsp;Guardiola’s&nbsp;men as they finished second-best.

The win for United also saw Erik ten Hag ended his second season with a trophy. He lifted the League Cup in his first season and became only the second United manager in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era to win two major trophies.

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However, an early exit from the Champions League and an eighth-place finish in the Premier League were the big lows for United during the 2023-24 season. The club was also&nbsp;in danger of missing&nbsp;out on European football had they not won the FA Cup. As things stand,&nbsp;United’s&nbsp; win in the FA Cup will see them qualify for the Europa League along with Tottenham Hotspur&nbsp; while&nbsp;Chelsea will compete in the UEFA Conference League. Newcastle United&nbsp;will miss out on European football despite finishing seventh in the Premier League.

While the FA Cup win might have eased the pressure on Ten Hag, it is still likely that he could face the sack with the club hierarchy already on a hunt for a new manager.&nbsp;

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has addressed rumours of his departure from the club after he lifted the FA Cup on Saturday (May 25) at Wembley Stadium. Ten Hag is rumoured to get sacked from his Manchester United managerial role after the club endured a tough season in his second spell.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has addressed rumours of his departure from the club after he lifted the FA Cup on Saturday (May 25) at Wembley Stadium. Ten Hag is rumoured to get sacked from his Manchester United managerial role after the club endured a tough season in his second spell. Manchester United beat arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final 2-1 and clinched their 13th title in the historic tournament. Ten Hag addresses rumours "Two trophies in two years is not bad, three finals in two years is not bad," Ten Hag told a postmatch news conference Saturday. "If they don't want me, then I go somewhere else to win trophies because that is what I do." Goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo in the first half were enough for United to exact revenge on Manchester City having lost in the FA Cup final in 2023. Although Man City pulled one goal back late in the contest, there was no joy for Pep Guardiola’s men as they finished second-best. The win for United also saw Erik ten Hag ended his second season with a trophy. He lifted the League Cup in his first season and became only the second United manager in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era to win two major trophies. ALSO READ | IPL 2024 BIG FINAL, Kolkata Knight Riders vs SunRisers Hyderabad – Match preview and result prediction However, an early exit from the Champions League and an eighth-place finish in the Premier League were the big lows for United during the 2023-24 season. The club was also in danger of missing out on European football had they not won the FA Cup. As things stand, United’s win in the FA Cup will see them qualify for the Europa League along with Tottenham Hotspur while Chelsea will compete in the UEFA Conference League. Newcastle United will miss out on European football despite finishing seventh in the Premier League. While the FA Cup win might have eased the pressure on Ten Hag, it is still likely that he could face the sack with the club hierarchy already on a hunt for a new manager.

‘I will go somewhere else to win trophies’: Erik ten Hag addresses sack rumours after FA Cup win

Manchester United outclassed arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final as they lifted their 13th title in England’s oldest football competition. Against the odds, United beat City 2-1 in the final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday (May 25) with goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo in the second half. The win also sees United qualify for next season’s Europa League&nbsp;while&nbsp;Man City’s season only ended with the Premier League.

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THIRTEEN TIMES 🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> || <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FACupFinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FACupFinal</a> <a href="https://t.co/UT5ZBjCsnQ">pic.twitter.com/UT5ZBjCsnQ</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1794398519169572907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Man Utd clinch 13th FA Cup&nbsp;final</h2>

In a replay of last season’s FA Cup final&nbsp;United&nbsp;completely outplayed City from the start as they caught their opposite number on the counter attack.&nbsp;Having been in the headlines for the title-winning save against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League two weeks ago, Ortega&nbsp;was on the receiving end of&nbsp;criticism for the opening goal in the 30th minute.&nbsp;The Red Devils caught Man City napping in the defence as a diagonal ball was not judged by the backline&nbsp;with&nbsp;defender Joško Gvardiol opting to backpass the ball to goalkeeper Ortega.

However, the goalie was in no man’s land to collect Gvardiol’s pass as he&nbsp;too&nbsp;had&nbsp;approached the ball.&nbsp;This&nbsp;left Manchester United attacker Garnacho free on goal from the 12-yard spot as he slotted home an easy goal. The opening goal came courtesy of United’s good pressing tactic&nbsp;which&nbsp;has not been their ‘A-game’ in the Premier League season.

The lead was doubled&nbsp;just&nbsp;six minutes before the half time as Kobbie Mainoo’s goal put the Red Devils in control.&nbsp;A cross ball from the deep was not dealt by the Man City defence before it landed swiftly for captain Bruno Fernandes&nbsp;who&nbsp;assisted Mainoo for the goal.

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Manager Pep Guardiola reacted with a series of changes at half-time and the hour-mark, but Man City could break United's determination to win the FA Cup. Jeremy Doku did score a late goal for City in the 86th minute, but the Red Devils held on to win their 13th title.

The win could also ease pressure on Manchester United's manager&nbsp;who&nbsp;is reportedly on the brink of getting sacked. Reports in England have suggested that Erik ten Hag could&nbsp;be sacked&nbsp;but could now retain some hope to keep his job.

On the bigger picture, United will play in the 2024-25 Europa League along with Tottenham Hotspur&nbsp;while&nbsp;Chelsea will&nbsp;be demoted&nbsp;to the UEFA Conference League despite finishing sixth in the Premier League. The result also means Newcastle United will miss out on European football altogether.

Manchester United outclassed arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final as they lifted their 13th title in England’s oldest football competition. Against the odds, United beat City 2-1 in the final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday (May 25) with goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo in the second half.

Manchester United outclassed arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final as they lifted their 13th title in England’s oldest football competition. Against the odds, United beat City 2-1 in the final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday (May 25) with goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo in the second half. The win also sees United qualify for next season’s Europa League while Man City’s season only ended with the Premier League. THIRTEEN TIMES 🏆#MUFC || #FACupFinal pic.twitter.com/UT5ZBjCsnQ — Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 25, 2024 × Man Utd clinch 13th FA Cup final In a replay of last season’s FA Cup final United completely outplayed City from the start as they caught their opposite number on the counter attack. Having been in the headlines for the title-winning save against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League two weeks ago, Ortega was on the receiving end of criticism for the opening goal in the 30th minute. The Red Devils caught Man City napping in the defence as a diagonal ball was not judged by the backline with defender Joško Gvardiol opting to backpass the ball to goalkeeper Ortega. However, the goalie was in no man’s land to collect Gvardiol’s pass as he too had approached the ball. This left Manchester United attacker Garnacho free on goal from the 12-yard spot as he slotted home an easy goal. The opening goal came courtesy of United’s good pressing tactic which has not been their ‘A-game’ in the Premier League season. The lead was doubled just six minutes before the half time as Kobbie Mainoo’s goal put the Red Devils in control. A cross ball from the deep was not dealt by the Man City defence before it landed swiftly for captain Bruno Fernandes who assisted Mainoo for the goal. ALSO READ | FA Cup Final: Stefan Ortega's howler gifts Manchester United opening goal at Wembley - WATCH Manager Pep Guardiola reacted with a series of changes at half-time and the hour-mark, but Man City could break United's determination to win the FA Cup. Jeremy Doku did score a late goal for City in the 86th minute, but the Red Devils held on to win their 13th title. The win could also ease pressure on Manchester United's manager who is reportedly on the brink of getting sacked. Reports in England have suggested that Erik ten Hag could be sacked but could now retain some hope to keep his job. On the bigger picture, United will play in the 2024-25 Europa League along with Tottenham Hotspur while Chelsea will be demoted to the UEFA Conference League despite finishing sixth in the Premier League. The result also means Newcastle United will miss out on European football altogether.

Manchester United outplay arch-rivals City to clinch 13th FA Cup title at Wembley

It was a chaotic start in the FA Cup final for Premier League champions Manchester City after they gifted the opening goal to arch-rivals Manchester United at Wembley Stadium. Playing in a back-to-back all-Manchester affair, Man City’s German goalkeeper Stefan Ortega was at fault for the opening goal in the 30th minute as United forward Alejandro Garnacho pounced to open the scoring. The shocking lead left all Man City fans in disarray while United enjoyed the moment.

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Look at Stefan Ortega movement that lead to Manchester United goal 😠 <a href="https://t.co/ZLuJLkaEc8">pic.twitter.com/ZLuJLkaEc8</a>
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<h2>Ortega goes hero to zero</h2>

Having been in the headlines for the title-winning save against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League two weeks ago, Ortega was at&nbsp;the receiving end of criticism. After a nervous start for Man City, United caught their backline napping with a pass that caused confusion at the half-hour mark. A long ball from United was&nbsp;misread&nbsp;by defender Joško Gvardiol as he opted to backpass the ball to goalkeeper Ortega.

However, the goalie was in no man’s land to collect the Gvardiol pass as he too had approached the ball. This left Manchester United attacker Garnacho free on goal from the 12-yard spot and&nbsp;he slotted home an easy goal. The opening goal came courtesy of United’s good pressing tactic which has not been their ‘A-game’ in the Premier League season.

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Things would then go from bad to worse as United caught Man City on the break in the 39th minute after the Red Devils scored a team goal. A cross ball from the deep was not dealt by the defence before it landed swiftly for captain Bruno Fernandes. The United skipper with a clever pass helped the ball in Kobbie Mainoo’s path who scored the second goal of the match for United.

At the time of writing, United were 2-0 up at half time and needed to keep City shut for the rest of the match to win their 13th FA Cup title.

It was a chaotic start in the FA Cup final for Premier League champions Manchester City after they gifted the opening goal to arch-rivals Manchester United at Wembley Stadium.

It was a chaotic start in the FA Cup final for Premier League champions Manchester City after they gifted the opening goal to arch-rivals Manchester United at Wembley Stadium. Playing in a back-to-back all-Manchester affair, Man City’s German goalkeeper Stefan Ortega was at fault for the opening goal in the 30th minute as United forward Alejandro Garnacho pounced to open the scoring. The shocking lead left all Man City fans in disarray while United enjoyed the moment. Look at Stefan Ortega movement that lead to Manchester United goal 😠 pic.twitter.com/ZLuJLkaEc8 — Christian (@Icecolepalma) May 25, 2024 × Ortega goes hero to zero Having been in the headlines for the title-winning save against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League two weeks ago, Ortega was at the receiving end of criticism. After a nervous start for Man City, United caught their backline napping with a pass that caused confusion at the half-hour mark. A long ball from United was misread by defender Joško Gvardiol as he opted to backpass the ball to goalkeeper Ortega. However, the goalie was in no man’s land to collect the Gvardiol pass as he too had approached the ball. This left Manchester United attacker Garnacho free on goal from the 12-yard spot and he slotted home an easy goal. The opening goal came courtesy of United’s good pressing tactic which has not been their ‘A-game’ in the Premier League season. ALSO READ | 'Not 100 percent certain this will be my last French Open': Rafael Nadal hints at possible return in 2025 Things would then go from bad to worse as United caught Man City on the break in the 39th minute after the Red Devils scored a team goal. A cross ball from the deep was not dealt by the defence before it landed swiftly for captain Bruno Fernandes. The United skipper with a clever pass helped the ball in Kobbie Mainoo’s path who scored the second goal of the match for United. At the time of writing, United were 2-0 up at half time and needed to keep City shut for the rest of the match to win their 13th FA Cup title.

FA Cup Final: Stefan Ortega’s howler gifts Manchester United opening goal at Wembley - WATCH

Erik ten Hag’s tenure as manager of Manchester United could come to an end on Saturday (May 25) as the Red Devils prepare to face arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final. Ten Hag, led United to their worst finish in the Premier League era last Sunday after they were condemned to eighth place. Now according to reports from several media outlets in the United Kingdom, Saturday’s FA Cup&nbsp;final against City could be the last straw for him.

<h2>Ten Hag to be sacked after the FA Cup final?</h2>

While nothing is official yet, United minority stakeholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reportedly decided to part ways with Ten Hag. This comes after the club endured tough times throughout the season in different competitions. United finished the season with a negative Goal Difference (GD) for the first time in the Premier League era, which was a new low for the Red Devils.

Ten Hag’s approach to play has attracted criticism from the board, which had a major overhaul in the last few months.

Another factor suggested in Ten Hag getting sacked is the managers Marcus Rashford going off the radar in recent months and Jadon Sancho forced to leave the club on loan.

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United’s form in the Champions League was also a worry after the club finished bottom of their group standings and failed to retain a place in Europe for the second half of the season. If the club fails to win the FA Cup, they will be without European football for the first time since the 2014-15 season.

Reports also suggest United have already lined up a three-man shortlist to succeed Ten Hag, with former Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel a clear favourite. Former academy coach and childhood United fan Kieran McKenna is also a priority name for United if they fail in pursuit of Tuchel.

Mauricio Pochettino, who&nbsp;recently resigned at Chelsea, also has admirers at the club and was close to being appointed as the manager in 2022 before Ten Hag got the job.

Erik ten Hag’s tenure as manager of Manchester United could come to an end on Saturday (May 25) as the Red Devils prepare to face arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final.

Erik ten Hag’s tenure as manager of Manchester United could come to an end on Saturday (May 25) as the Red Devils prepare to face arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final. Ten Hag, led United to their worst finish in the Premier League era last Sunday after they were condemned to eighth place. Now according to reports from several media outlets in the United Kingdom, Saturday’s FA Cup final against City could be the last straw for him. Ten Hag to be sacked after the FA Cup final? While nothing is official yet, United minority stakeholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reportedly decided to part ways with Ten Hag. This comes after the club endured tough times throughout the season in different competitions. United finished the season with a negative Goal Difference (GD) for the first time in the Premier League era, which was a new low for the Red Devils. Ten Hag’s approach to play has attracted criticism from the board, which had a major overhaul in the last few months. Another factor suggested in Ten Hag getting sacked is the managers Marcus Rashford going off the radar in recent months and Jadon Sancho forced to leave the club on loan. ALSO READ | Barcelona sack head coach Xavi Hernandez for comments over financial situation; Hansi Flick likely to succeed United’s form in the Champions League was also a worry after the club finished bottom of their group standings and failed to retain a place in Europe for the second half of the season. If the club fails to win the FA Cup, they will be without European football for the first time since the 2014-15 season. Reports also suggest United have already lined up a three-man shortlist to succeed Ten Hag, with former Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel a clear favourite. Former academy coach and childhood United fan Kieran McKenna is also a priority name for United if they fail in pursuit of Tuchel. Mauricio Pochettino, who recently resigned at Chelsea, also has admirers at the club and was close to being appointed as the manager in 2022 before Ten Hag got the job.

Manchester United to part ways with manager Erik ten Hag after FA Cup final - Reports

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has made a&nbsp;massive statement on the eve of the FA Cup final as the club prepares for a tense 24 hours. Fernandes, who has been the standout player for Manchester United this season despite the&nbsp;club’s&nbsp;worst Premier League&nbsp;finish&nbsp;has urged players to keep&nbsp;on&nbsp;fighting while also matching his expectations. United will play arch-rivals Manchester City in&nbsp;the FA Cup final for the second consecutive season&nbsp;and will need to win if manager Erik ten Hag hopes to keep his job.

<h2>Fernandes urges United to fight</h2>

"I&nbsp;love to step out at Old Trafford more than anything&nbsp;in the world. I&nbsp;don't&nbsp;want to leave.&nbsp;This&nbsp;has always been my ultimate dream,"&nbsp;he wrote in a letter to fans in The&nbsp;Players'&nbsp;Tribune ahead of&nbsp;United's&nbsp;FA Cup final clash against Manchester City on Saturday.

"I&nbsp;just want my expectations to fit with the&nbsp;expectations of the club. If you&nbsp;go&nbsp;talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing.

"We want to compete for the league.&nbsp;We want to be playing Champions League football.&nbsp;We want to be in the cup finals. That is the standard. That is what I want. That is what you all deserve.

The player made a massive statement on his future last week, suggesting he could be&nbsp;on his way&nbsp;out of the club if the management wants him to.&nbsp;Fernandes will have a huge role&nbsp;to play&nbsp;in&nbsp;Saturday’s&nbsp;clash as United&nbsp;prepare&nbsp;for the do-or-die contest to end the season on a winning note.

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Manager Ten Hag&nbsp;is&nbsp;reported&nbsp;to be sacked by the club if he fails to deliver a trophy&nbsp;for the club&nbsp;this season.&nbsp;In his second season in charge, United finished eighth in the Premier League, the&nbsp;club’s&nbsp;lowest finish since the 1989-90 season. With new management at the club, Sir Jim Ratcliffe could pull the trigger to sack Ten Hag if the FA Cup final result goes against the Red Devils.

Fernandes&nbsp;on&nbsp;the other&nbsp;hand&nbsp;will look to give his best shot in the FA Cup final before joining the Portugal national side at the Euro 2024.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has made a massive statement on the eve of the FA Cup final as the club prepares for a tense 24 hours. Fernandes, who has been the standout player for Manchester United this season despite the club’s worst Premier League finish has urged players to keep on fighting while also matching his expectations.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has made a massive statement on the eve of the FA Cup final as the club prepares for a tense 24 hours. Fernandes, who has been the standout player for Manchester United this season despite the club’s worst Premier League finish has urged players to keep on fighting while also matching his expectations. United will play arch-rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final for the second consecutive season and will need to win if manager Erik ten Hag hopes to keep his job. Fernandes urges United to fight "I love to step out at Old Trafford more than anything in the world. I don't want to leave. This has always been my ultimate dream," he wrote in a letter to fans in The Players' Tribune ahead of United's FA Cup final clash against Manchester City on Saturday. "I just want my expectations to fit with the expectations of the club. If you go talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing. "We want to compete for the league. We want to be playing Champions League football. We want to be in the cup finals. That is the standard. That is what I want. That is what you all deserve. The player made a massive statement on his future last week, suggesting he could be on his way out of the club if the management wants him to. Fernandes will have a huge role to play in Saturday’s clash as United prepare for the do-or-die contest to end the season on a winning note. ALSO READ | Serie A: AC Milan sack title-winning coach Stefano Pioli despite finishing seventh; Fonseca likley to succeed Manager Ten Hag is reported to be sacked by the club if he fails to deliver a trophy for the club this season. In his second season in charge, United finished eighth in the Premier League, the club’s lowest finish since the 1989-90 season. With new management at the club, Sir Jim Ratcliffe could pull the trigger to sack Ten Hag if the FA Cup final result goes against the Red Devils. Fernandes on the other hand will look to give his best shot in the FA Cup final before joining the Portugal national side at the Euro 2024.

FA Cup Final: Bruno Fernandes urges Man Utd to keep on fighting, calls club to match his expectations

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been ruled out of&nbsp;Saturday's&nbsp;(May 25) FA Cup final against arch-rivals Manchester City as he struggles with a muscle issue. Maguire, who will be part of&nbsp;England’s&nbsp;Euro 2024&nbsp;squad&nbsp;will now look to be fit for the&nbsp;summer’s&nbsp;big event with his club season over. With Maguire missing, United&nbsp;will have a big problem to fill in the shoes in&nbsp;center back&nbsp;region with Lisandro Martinez not yet at 100 percent fitness and Raphael Varane already opting to stay out.&nbsp;

<h2>Maguire out for United</h2>

"Maguire is unavailable. He&nbsp;didn't&nbsp;make it. He&nbsp;hasn't&nbsp;healed as&nbsp;we&nbsp;expected,”&nbsp;Ten Hag said in the pre-match press conference. &nbsp;

"All the players mentioned (Lindelof, Mount and Martial),&nbsp;are&nbsp;I&nbsp;think&nbsp;all&nbsp;available, Ten Hag added.&nbsp;Tomorrow&nbsp;final&nbsp;training&nbsp;and&nbsp;then&nbsp;we will make final decisions&nbsp;but&nbsp;if&nbsp;I oversee it&nbsp;now&nbsp;it looks good."

The Red Devils will miss the services of their former captain in&nbsp;Saturday’s&nbsp;match&nbsp;which&nbsp;could be a decider for manager Erik ten Hag in terms of his future with the club.

United ended the Premier League with their worst finish in eighth and will miss out on Europe&nbsp;completely&nbsp;if they fail to win&nbsp;Saturday’s&nbsp;match. As things stand, only a win in the FA Cup final will see United qualify for the Europa League with their league form not good enough.&nbsp;

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The clash against City will&nbsp;be a repeat of&nbsp;the 2023 FA Cup&nbsp;final&nbsp;where United lost to City in a one-sided contest. For Ten&nbsp;Hag&nbsp;this will be his third Cup final with the side and could be decisive as he faces an uncertain future.&nbsp;

A defeat on Saturday could&nbsp;be the end of&nbsp;the spell for Ten Hag&nbsp;with&nbsp;big names already linked with the job.&nbsp;

As things stand,&nbsp;the likes of&nbsp;Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino and Hansi Flick are the&nbsp;available&nbsp;options.&nbsp;Interestingly, the&nbsp;last time United won the FA Cup&nbsp;they&nbsp;sacked their manager&nbsp;Louis&nbsp;van Gaal&nbsp;back&nbsp;in 2016.&nbsp;

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been ruled out of Saturday's (May 25) FA Cup final against arch-rivals Manchester City as he struggles with a muscle issue.

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been ruled out of Saturday's (May 25) FA Cup final against arch-rivals Manchester City as he struggles with a muscle issue. Maguire, who will be part of England’s Euro 2024 squad will now look to be fit for the summer’s big event with his club season over. With Maguire missing, United will have a big problem to fill in the shoes in center back region with Lisandro Martinez not yet at 100 percent fitness and Raphael Varane already opting to stay out. Maguire out for United "Maguire is unavailable. He didn't make it. He hasn't healed as we expected,” Ten Hag said in the pre-match press conference. "All the players mentioned (Lindelof, Mount and Martial), are I think all available, Ten Hag added. Tomorrow final training and then we will make final decisions but if I oversee it now it looks good." The Red Devils will miss the services of their former captain in Saturday’s match which could be a decider for manager Erik ten Hag in terms of his future with the club. United ended the Premier League with their worst finish in eighth and will miss out on Europe completely if they fail to win Saturday’s match. As things stand, only a win in the FA Cup final will see United qualify for the Europa League with their league form not good enough. ALSO READ | Premier League: West Ham midfielder Lucas Paquetá charged with betting rule breaches The clash against City will be a repeat of the 2023 FA Cup final where United lost to City in a one-sided contest. For Ten Hag this will be his third Cup final with the side and could be decisive as he faces an uncertain future. A defeat on Saturday could be the end of the spell for Ten Hag with big names already linked with the job. As things stand, the likes of Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino and Hansi Flick are the available options. Interestingly, the last time United won the FA Cup they sacked their manager Louis van Gaal back in 2016.

FA Cup Final: Harry Maguire to miss Manchester City clash with muscle issue as United face selection dilemma

Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes should be stripped of his captaincy according to former player Roy Keane, who blasted the Portuguese international after the squad's 3-0 loss to Manchester City in Sunday's derby at Old Trafford.

"What I saw today, I would take the captaincy off Fernandes. He is not captain material," Keane said on Sky Sports. "He's whinging, he's moaning. "I would start with that because the manager can control that. He is the opposite to what I would want as a captain."

Keane, a former United captain, echoed Gary Neville's thoughts on Fernandes after the side's 7-0 thrashing at Liverpool last season, their heaviest loss since 1931.

Fernandes grew increasingly frustrated during that game in March, waving his arms wildly, falling theatrically and gesturing to manager Erik ten Hag to sub him off.

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"I think some of his behaviour in the second half has been a disgrace," Neville, also a former captain at United, said that night. "(United) have not been epitomised more than Bruno Fernandes, who has been embarrassing -- a shambles -- in this game."

Fernandes was made captain last summer after Harry Maguire was stripped of the role. "Today having watched him again I would take the captaincy off him 100%," Keane said on Sunday. "I know it's a big decision, obviously they changed the captaincy with Maguire, but Fernandes is not captain material.

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Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes should be stripped of his captaincy according to former player Roy Keane, who blasted the Portuguese international after the squad's 3-0 loss to Manchester City in Sunday's derby at Old Trafford.

Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes should be stripped of his captaincy according to former player Roy Keane, who blasted the Portuguese international after the squad's 3-0 loss to Manchester City in Sunday's derby at Old Trafford. "What I saw today, I would take the captaincy off Fernandes. He is not captain material," Keane said on Sky Sports. "He's whinging, he's moaning. "I would start with that because the manager can control that. He is the opposite to what I would want as a captain." Keane, a former United captain, echoed Gary Neville's thoughts on Fernandes after the side's 7-0 thrashing at Liverpool last season, their heaviest loss since 1931. Fernandes grew increasingly frustrated during that game in March, waving his arms wildly, falling theatrically and gesturing to manager Erik ten Hag to sub him off. Also Read: NBA: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 33 points helps Oklahoma City Thunder defeat Los Angeles Lakers "I think some of his behaviour in the second half has been a disgrace," Neville, also a former captain at United, said that night. "(United) have not been epitomised more than Bruno Fernandes, who has been embarrassing -- a shambles -- in this game." Fernandes was made captain last summer after Harry Maguire was stripped of the role. "Today having watched him again I would take the captaincy off him 100%," Keane said on Sunday. "I know it's a big decision, obviously they changed the captaincy with Maguire, but Fernandes is not captain material. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bruno Fernandes not captain material, says Manchester United legend Roy Keane

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will continue their quest for a historic treble as they take on arch-rivals United at Wembley Stadium in London on Saturday. A win for Guardiola’s men will see them move one step closer to the treble before they take on Inter Milan in the final of the Champions League next Saturday. Erik ten Hag’s side will be full of confidence after finishing third in the Premier League and will eye a domestic double, having already pocketed the League Cup.

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The Derby 🤩 
 
It'll be an all-Manchester Final for the pinnacle of the 2022/23 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmiratesFACup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmiratesFACup</a> 🏆 <a href="https://t.co/bgMobg4Qd8">pic.twitter.com/bgMobg4Qd8</a>
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<h2>Can Ten Hag’s side stop Man City?</h2>

This will be the third meeting of the season between the two sides with Man City winning the first PL affair 6-3. However, United got their revenge in January after they won 2-1 at Old Trafford and will look to once again stop the Blue side from a win. So far this season, City have scored 148 goals in 59 matches and averaged more than 2.5 goals in a match in all competitions.

Erling Haaland has been the top performer for the side and recently bagged the Premier League Golden Boot with 36 goals in the season. City saw off competition from Chelsea and Arsenal in the initial rounds before getting the better of Sheffield United in the semifinal. Interestingly, the PL champions are yet to concede in this season’s FA Cup.

<h2>United in the wheels</h2>

While the talk has been about City’s treble, United could themselves pocket a domestic double as they look to add to their League Cup success. Brighton stretched them to a penalty shootout before the Red Devils advance to the final. They won all their affairs 3-1 until the goalless draw against Brighton that was settled in the shootout.

Ten Hag will have fond memories of his recent Wembley visits as he boosts an unbeaten record at the venue while Guardiola will face Manchester United for the first time at the venue since his Barcelona days. Pep’s side got the better of Sir Alex Ferguson’s United 3-1 in the Champions League final at the venue in 2011.

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<h2>Team News</h2>

Ederson is expected to be the only high-profile name to miss the Saturday showdown as second-choice Stefan Ortega will come back into the side. Ortega has kept five clean sheets and could add to his tally with John Stones also expected to return to the Starting XI for a midfield role.

For United, summer purchase Antony is unlikely to feature while Anthony Martial has been ruled out altogether with a hamstring issue.

Manchester City possible starting lineup:

Ortega; Walker, Dias, Ake; Stones, Rodri; Bernardo, De Bruyne, Gundogan, Grealish; Haaland

Manchester United possible starting lineup:

De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Lindelof, Shaw; Casemiro, Eriksen; Sancho, Fernandes, Garnacho; Rashford

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will continue their quest for a historic treble as they take on arch-rivals United at Wembley Stadium in London on Saturday. A win for Guardiola’s men will see them move one step closer to the treble before they take on Inter Milan in the final of the Champions League next Saturday.

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will continue their quest for a historic treble as they take on arch-rivals United at Wembley Stadium in London on Saturday. A win for Guardiola’s men will see them move one step closer to the treble before they take on Inter Milan in the final of the Champions League next Saturday. Erik ten Hag’s side will be full of confidence after finishing third in the Premier League and will eye a domestic double, having already pocketed the League Cup. The Derby 🤩 It'll be an all-Manchester Final for the pinnacle of the 2022/23 #EmiratesFACup 🏆 pic.twitter.com/bgMobg4Qd8 — Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) April 23, 2023 × Can Ten Hag’s side stop Man City? This will be the third meeting of the season between the two sides with Man City winning the first PL affair 6-3. However, United got their revenge in January after they won 2-1 at Old Trafford and will look to once again stop the Blue side from a win. So far this season, City have scored 148 goals in 59 matches and averaged more than 2.5 goals in a match in all competitions. Erling Haaland has been the top performer for the side and recently bagged the Premier League Golden Boot with 36 goals in the season. City saw off competition from Chelsea and Arsenal in the initial rounds before getting the better of Sheffield United in the semifinal. Interestingly, the PL champions are yet to concede in this season’s FA Cup. United in the wheels While the talk has been about City’s treble, United could themselves pocket a domestic double as they look to add to their League Cup success. Brighton stretched them to a penalty shootout before the Red Devils advance to the final. They won all their affairs 3-1 until the goalless draw against Brighton that was settled in the shootout. Ten Hag will have fond memories of his recent Wembley visits as he boosts an unbeaten record at the venue while Guardiola will face Manchester United for the first time at the venue since his Barcelona days. Pep’s side got the better of Sir Alex Ferguson’s United 3-1 in the Champions League final at the venue in 2011. ALSO READ | India's 1983 WC winning team backs protesting wrestlers, urges them to not immerse medals in Ganges Team News Ederson is expected to be the only high-profile name to miss the Saturday showdown as second-choice Stefan Ortega will come back into the side. Ortega has kept five clean sheets and could add to his tally with John Stones also expected to return to the Starting XI for a midfield role. For United, summer purchase Antony is unlikely to feature while Anthony Martial has been ruled out altogether with a hamstring issue. Manchester City possible starting lineup: Ortega; Walker, Dias, Ake; Stones, Rodri; Bernardo, De Bruyne, Gundogan, Grealish; Haaland Manchester United possible starting lineup: De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Lindelof, Shaw; Casemiro, Eriksen; Sancho, Fernandes, Garnacho; Rashford

FA Cup Final Preview: Manchester United stand in way as Pep Guardiola's City chase historic treble

Manchester United suffered a humiliating 6-3 defeat at the hands of arch-rivals Manchester City in the first Manchester Derby in the Premier League on Sunday. United were completely demolished by Pep Guardiola's side as Erling Haaland and Phil Foden bagged a hat-trick apiece to extend their unbeaten streak in the Premier League this season.

It was a nightmarish start for United as Foden opened the scoring for City in the 8th minute before Haaland scored twice inside four minutes to make it 3-0. Foden piled more misery on their city rivals with another goal in the 44th minute to ensure the reigning Premier League champions had the game in their bag by halftime.

In the second half, Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag went on to make a number of chances as the likes of Fred, Casemiro, Anthony Martial, Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw all came on from the bench. However, Cristiano Ronaldo remained an unused substitute on the bench for United despite them going 4-0 down at the end of the first half.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/erling-haaland-phil-foden-smash-hat-tricks-as-manchester-city-thrash-man-utd-6-3-in-premier-league-521837">Erling Haaland, Phil Foden smash hat-tricks as Manchester City thrash Man Utd 6-3 in Premier League</a>

When asked about his decision to not bring Ronaldo as a substitute in the second half, Ten Hag said it was 'out of respect' for the Portuguese forward's big career. Ten Hag admitted he didn't want Ronaldo to be subjected to humiliation at the hands of City.

"I wouldn't bring him in out of respect for Cristiano, for his big career," Ten Hag said after the game.

"The other thing was the advantage that I could bring on Anthony Martial. He needs the minutes, but I don't want to point it out like that," he added.

Ronaldo, who wanted to leave Manchester United in the summer transfer window earlier this year, had to remain at the club as no top team came in for him. He has had a sluggish start to the season and has managed only one start for United in the Premier League so far this season.

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United did manage to score three goals in the second half but it wasn't enough as City scored two more to make 6-3. Ten Hag said his side lacked belief in the game and the performance was unacceptable. The Man Utd manager insisted he couldn't think of any positives to take from the game.

"It's quite simple, it's a lack of belief. When you don't believe on the pitch, then you can't win games; that is unacceptable. We get undisciplined at following rules and you get hammered, that's happened today," said Ten Hag.

"All the credit to City, but it's nothing to do with City, our performance was not good. It had to do with the belief as individuals and as a team.

"From the first minute I felt it, and at half-time, we changed things and we changed attitude. In this moment I can't think about positives. We let our fans down, we let ourselves down and we're hugely disappointed," he added.

Manchester United suffered a humiliating 6-3 defeat at the hands of arch-rivals Manchester City in the first Manchester Derby in the Premier League on Sunday. United were completely demolished by Pep Guardiola's side as Erling Haaland and Phil Foden bagged a hat-trick apiece to extend their unbeaten streak in the Premier League this season.

Manchester United suffered a humiliating 6-3 defeat at the hands of arch-rivals Manchester City in the first Manchester Derby in the Premier League on Sunday. United were completely demolished by Pep Guardiola's side as Erling Haaland and Phil Foden bagged a hat-trick apiece to extend their unbeaten streak in the Premier League this season. It was a nightmarish start for United as Foden opened the scoring for City in the 8th minute before Haaland scored twice inside four minutes to make it 3-0. Foden piled more misery on their city rivals with another goal in the 44th minute to ensure the reigning Premier League champions had the game in their bag by halftime. In the second half, Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag went on to make a number of chances as the likes of Fred, Casemiro, Anthony Martial, Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw all came on from the bench. However, Cristiano Ronaldo remained an unused substitute on the bench for United despite them going 4-0 down at the end of the first half. Also Read: Erling Haaland, Phil Foden smash hat-tricks as Manchester City thrash Man Utd 6-3 in Premier League When asked about his decision to not bring Ronaldo as a substitute in the second half, Ten Hag said it was 'out of respect' for the Portuguese forward's big career. Ten Hag admitted he didn't want Ronaldo to be subjected to humiliation at the hands of City. "I wouldn't bring him in out of respect for Cristiano, for his big career," Ten Hag said after the game. "The other thing was the advantage that I could bring on Anthony Martial. He needs the minutes, but I don't want to point it out like that," he added. Ronaldo, who wanted to leave Manchester United in the summer transfer window earlier this year, had to remain at the club as no top team came in for him. He has had a sluggish start to the season and has managed only one start for United in the Premier League so far this season. Also Read: Indonesia appoints independent commission to investigate deaths in football stampede United did manage to score three goals in the second half but it wasn't enough as City scored two more to make 6-3. Ten Hag said his side lacked belief in the game and the performance was unacceptable. The Man Utd manager insisted he couldn't think of any positives to take from the game. "It's quite simple, it's a lack of belief. When you don't believe on the pitch, then you can't win games; that is unacceptable. We get undisciplined at following rules and you get hammered, that's happened today," said Ten Hag. "All the credit to City, but it's nothing to do with City, our performance was not good. It had to do with the belief as individuals and as a team. "From the first minute I felt it, and at half-time, we changed things and we changed attitude. In this moment I can't think about positives. We let our fans down, we let ourselves down and we're hugely disappointed," he added.

'Out of respect': Erik Ten Hag's shocking admission on why he didn't play Cristiano Ronaldo against Man City

Erling Haaland and Phil Foden scored hat-tricks to fire champions Manchester City to a rampant 6-3 thrashing of local rivals Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.

City put United to the sword in a ruthless display of attacking football in the first half at the Etihad Stadium, as the visitors, who had won their last four league games, were blown away by the champions.

Foden got the scoring underway inside eight minutes, sweeping home Bernardo Silva's low cross, before Haaland headed his first in the 34th minute to put City in command.

Haaland has made a mockery of settling into life in the Premier League and the Norwegian struck again in the 34th minute on the stretch before Foden added the fourth three minutes later.

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Big-money signing Antony curled a stunning strike into the net early in the second half to give United faint hope of a remarkable comeback, before Haaland fired home his 17th goal of an incredible season to notch up his third hat-trick in eight Premier League games.

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Foden completed his first Premier League treble to finish off the perfect afternoon for irresistible City, before United substitute Anthony Martial added a late consolation double to make the scoreline more respectable.

Pep Guardiola's side moved to within a point of Arsenal at the top of the standings and a bruised United stayed sixth.

Erling Haaland and Phil Foden scored hat-tricks to fire champions Manchester City to a rampant 6-3 thrashing of local rivals Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.

Erling Haaland and Phil Foden scored hat-tricks to fire champions Manchester City to a rampant 6-3 thrashing of local rivals Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday. City put United to the sword in a ruthless display of attacking football in the first half at the Etihad Stadium, as the visitors, who had won their last four league games, were blown away by the champions. Foden got the scoring underway inside eight minutes, sweeping home Bernardo Silva's low cross, before Haaland headed his first in the 34th minute to put City in command. Haaland has made a mockery of settling into life in the Premier League and the Norwegian struck again in the 34th minute on the stretch before Foden added the fourth three minutes later. Also Read: Indonesia stadium stampede: What led to one of world's worst football tragedies? Big-money signing Antony curled a stunning strike into the net early in the second half to give United faint hope of a remarkable comeback, before Haaland fired home his 17th goal of an incredible season to notch up his third hat-trick in eight Premier League games. Also Read: Devastating! Wayne Rooney deeply shocked by deadly football stampede in Indonesia Foden completed his first Premier League treble to finish off the perfect afternoon for irresistible City, before United substitute Anthony Martial added a late consolation double to make the scoreline more respectable. Pep Guardiola's side moved to within a point of Arsenal at the top of the standings and a bruised United stayed sixth.

Erling Haaland, Phil Foden smash hat-tricks as Manchester City thrash Man Utd 6-3 in Premier League

Erik ten Hag praised Erling Haaland's goalscoring instincts but stressed that Manchester United will not focus solely on the Norwegian striker when they take on Manchester City in a Premier League derby clash.

Later on Sunday, United will have the formidable task of containing Haaland, who has made a blistering start to his City career with 11 league goals in seven games since arriving from Borussia Dortmund in the close season.

When asked if he had discussed Haaland with the striker's former Dortmund teammate Jadon Sancho, who now plays for United, Ten Hag told reporters, "of course when you have a player who played in the past with a player, you ask him."

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"I also think it is our job in advance to analyse as a team and if individual players have huge contribution to the result, we have to do our job and that is what I am doing with my staff and players because they can give us more details," Ten Hag added.

"I like Haaland's attitude. How he is on the pitch. He is direct, his life is about goals and he is direct to the goal of the opponent.

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"He can also create goals, but once again, I respect him, but for us on Sunday we are not playing against Haaland, we are playing against Man City and for us, it's not about Man City. It is about us and them being an opponent."

United, who are sixth in the league standings, travel to face second-placed City.

Erik ten Hag praised Erling Haaland's goalscoring instincts but stressed that Manchester United will not focus solely on the Norwegian striker when they take on Manchester City in a Premier League derby clash.

Erik ten Hag praised Erling Haaland's goalscoring instincts but stressed that Manchester United will not focus solely on the Norwegian striker when they take on Manchester City in a Premier League derby clash. Later on Sunday, United will have the formidable task of containing Haaland, who has made a blistering start to his City career with 11 league goals in seven games since arriving from Borussia Dortmund in the close season. When asked if he had discussed Haaland with the striker's former Dortmund teammate Jadon Sancho, who now plays for United, Ten Hag told reporters, "of course when you have a player who played in the past with a player, you ask him." Also Read: WATCH: Shocking video shows lifeless bodies of football fans lying on floor after deadly stampede in Indonesia "I also think it is our job in advance to analyse as a team and if individual players have huge contribution to the result, we have to do our job and that is what I am doing with my staff and players because they can give us more details," Ten Hag added. "I like Haaland's attitude. How he is on the pitch. He is direct, his life is about goals and he is direct to the goal of the opponent. Also Read: WATCH - Thomas Partey scores an outrageous goal as Arsenal thrash Tottenham in London Derby "He can also create goals, but once again, I respect him, but for us on Sunday we are not playing against Haaland, we are playing against Man City and for us, it's not about Man City. It is about us and them being an opponent." United, who are sixth in the league standings, travel to face second-placed City.

Manchester United facing Man City, not just Erling Haaland, says Erik Ten Hag ahead of Premier League clash

Cristiano Ronaldo didn't feature in Manchester United's Premier League clash versus arch-rivals Manchester City on March 6. The 37-year-old Portugal captain's absence made heads turn as the Red Devils were thrased 4-1 by the Cityzens. It is being reported that the star Man United striker isn't keen on carrying on with the club&nbsp;if they fail to qualify for the Champions League by not finishing in the top four this season.

Thus, speculations are rife that Ronaldo could join his arch-rival Lionel Messi in Paris Saint Germain, as a replacement for France's striker Kylian Mbappe. For the unversed, the Parisians are&nbsp;all but set to lose superstar forward&nbsp;Mbappe&nbsp;to Real Madrid in the summer. Thus, the hunt for his replacement has already commenced and Ronaldo's name is also in consideration. Along with him, Man Utd's striker Marcus Rashford is also a contender to join PSG as Mbappe's replacement.

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If all goes as per the reports, PSG could pull off the biggest casting coup by having both Ronaldo and Messi at their disposal. The two all-time greats have never shared a dressing room before and, hence, it will be a whopping news in the sporting fraternity.&nbsp;As per Football Transfers, Ronaldo is keen to make a shift from the Red Devils' camp if they fail to qualify for the Champions League as the veteran superstar footballer is eager to win one or more major honours before calling it quits.

While reports suggest that Ronaldo travelled back to Portugal and missed the Manchester Derby due to a hip injury, it is being said that the real reason behind his absence is&nbsp;to seek clarity on his future beyond this season.

Both Ronaldo and Rashford aren't getting much playing time in the Man United setup at present and, hence, PSG can pounce on this opportunity to add one of them in place of Mbappe.

Cristiano Ronaldo didn't feature in Manchester United's Premier League clash versus arch-rivals Manchester City on March 6. The 37-year-old Portugal captain's absence made heads turn as the Red Devils were thrased 4-1 by the Cityzens.

Cristiano Ronaldo didn't feature in Manchester United's Premier League clash versus arch-rivals Manchester City on March 6. The 37-year-old Portugal captain's absence made heads turn as the Red Devils were thrased 4-1 by the Cityzens. It is being reported that the star Man United striker isn't keen on carrying on with the club if they fail to qualify for the Champions League by not finishing in the top four this season. Thus, speculations are rife that Ronaldo could join his arch-rival Lionel Messi in Paris Saint Germain, as a replacement for France's striker Kylian Mbappe. For the unversed, the Parisians are all but set to lose superstar forward Mbappe to Real Madrid in the summer. Thus, the hunt for his replacement has already commenced and Ronaldo's name is also in consideration. Along with him, Man Utd's striker Marcus Rashford is also a contender to join PSG as Mbappe's replacement. ALSO READ | Lewandowski attains special feat, not even achieved by Ronaldo and Messi, in Champions League history If all goes as per the reports, PSG could pull off the biggest casting coup by having both Ronaldo and Messi at their disposal. The two all-time greats have never shared a dressing room before and, hence, it will be a whopping news in the sporting fraternity. As per Football Transfers, Ronaldo is keen to make a shift from the Red Devils' camp if they fail to qualify for the Champions League as the veteran superstar footballer is eager to win one or more major honours before calling it quits. While reports suggest that Ronaldo travelled back to Portugal and missed the Manchester Derby due to a hip injury, it is being said that the real reason behind his absence is to seek clarity on his future beyond this season. Both Ronaldo and Rashford aren't getting much playing time in the Man United setup at present and, hence, PSG can pounce on this opportunity to add one of them in place of Mbappe.

Is it happening? Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United and join Lionel Messi at PSG - Reports

Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick rejected any suggestion that there was more to Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from his team for Sunday's 4-1 defeat to Manchester City than a hip injury.

Former United captain Roy Keane had questioned how genuine the injury was during the Sky Sports broadcast of the derby, saying: "We talk about Ronaldo being some sort of machine, he's very rarely injured and then every now and again he comes out... and says hip flexor. It doesn’t add up to me."

Keane made similar comments after the game and Rangnick was asked in his news conference to respond.

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“The doctor came to see me on Friday and told me Cristiano cannot train due to a problem with his hip flexor and the same was true on Saturday and that’s why he couldn’t be part of the squad,” Rangnick said.

“It’s just a fact if players tell the medical department that they are injured and they cannot play I have to accept it," he added.

United were also without their Uruguayan forward Edinson Cavani due to injury but Rangnick said he had been fit enough to train.

"Edi trained in the last three days, he trained well but he still felt after those three training sessions yesterday afternoon that he is still not fit to play. This is a fact. As a manager, I cannot force a player if he does not feel fit enough or well enough to play," said the German.

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United have slipped out of the top four after their loss and Arsenal's 3-2 win over Watford left them a point behind the Gunners having played three games more and Rangnick said there was little room for error.

“I didn’t actually expect Arsenal to lose at Watford so for us it’s clear, if we still want to have a chance to finish fourth at the end of the season, we can almost not drop any more points," he said.

Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick rejected any suggestion that there was more to Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from his team for Sunday's 4-1 defeat to Manchester City than a hip injury.

Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick rejected any suggestion that there was more to Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from his team for Sunday's 4-1 defeat to Manchester City than a hip injury. Former United captain Roy Keane had questioned how genuine the injury was during the Sky Sports broadcast of the derby, saying: "We talk about Ronaldo being some sort of machine, he's very rarely injured and then every now and again he comes out... and says hip flexor. It doesn’t add up to me." Keane made similar comments after the game and Rangnick was asked in his news conference to respond. ALSO READ: 22 injured in brawl as football fans storm the field during clash between Queretaro and Atlas in Mexico “The doctor came to see me on Friday and told me Cristiano cannot train due to a problem with his hip flexor and the same was true on Saturday and that’s why he couldn’t be part of the squad,” Rangnick said. “It’s just a fact if players tell the medical department that they are injured and they cannot play I have to accept it," he added. United were also without their Uruguayan forward Edinson Cavani due to injury but Rangnick said he had been fit enough to train. "Edi trained in the last three days, he trained well but he still felt after those three training sessions yesterday afternoon that he is still not fit to play. This is a fact. As a manager, I cannot force a player if he does not feel fit enough or well enough to play," said the German. ALSO READ: Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel condemns Roman Abramovich chants during Ukraine solidarity gesture United have slipped out of the top four after their loss and Arsenal's 3-2 win over Watford left them a point behind the Gunners having played three games more and Rangnick said there was little room for error. “I didn’t actually expect Arsenal to lose at Watford so for us it’s clear, if we still want to have a chance to finish fourth at the end of the season, we can almost not drop any more points," he said.

Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick rubbishes speculations over Cristiano Ronaldo's injury

Despondent Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side took a "big step backwards" with their performance level against Manchester City as their rivals strolled to a 2-0 victory at Old Trafford on Saturday.

United had one shot on target all match in the Manchester rain, with a dominant City condemning them to a third defeat in their last four home league games with ease.

Solskjaer's side have lost eight home matches in all competitions in 2021, their most in a calendar year since losing eight in 1989, with the pressure mounting on the Norwegian as he struggles to turn things around.

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"Of course it's very disappointing," Solskjaer said. "It`s a big step backwards, it is a way of losing that we don`t like.

"When you lose a game against a good team you want to see a better Man United team than that.

"When we had the ball they pressed us really well. We couldn`t get the angles we needed to get the quality we have in behind.

So we never got to the level that we need to be at to win against good teams."

The knives were out for Solskjaer after United`s thrashing at the hands of Liverpool in their previous home league match, but a win at Tottenham Hotspur and a Champions League draw at Atalanta hinted at better times ahead, before City put them to the sword.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-to-respect-what-manchester-city-have-done-in-last-10-years-says-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-427182">Have to respect what Manchester City have done in last 10 years, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a>

"We started to look like the proper team," Solskjaer said. "We started to look on the front foot, the team that I like to see.

"We want to be on the front but we want to be more aggressive as well. We got a couple of good results but today was a big step back."

Despondent Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side took a "big step backwards" with their performance level against Manchester City as their rivals strolled to a 2-0 victory at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Despondent Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side took a "big step backwards" with their performance level against Manchester City as their rivals strolled to a 2-0 victory at Old Trafford on Saturday. United had one shot on target all match in the Manchester rain, with a dominant City condemning them to a third defeat in their last four home league games with ease. Solskjaer's side have lost eight home matches in all competitions in 2021, their most in a calendar year since losing eight in 1989, with the pressure mounting on the Norwegian as he struggles to turn things around. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester City outclass crisis-hit Manchester United "Of course it's very disappointing," Solskjaer said. "It`s a big step backwards, it is a way of losing that we don`t like. "When you lose a game against a good team you want to see a better Man United team than that. "When we had the ball they pressed us really well. We couldn`t get the angles we needed to get the quality we have in behind. So we never got to the level that we need to be at to win against good teams." The knives were out for Solskjaer after United`s thrashing at the hands of Liverpool in their previous home league match, but a win at Tottenham Hotspur and a Champions League draw at Atalanta hinted at better times ahead, before City put them to the sword. ALSO READ: Have to respect what Manchester City have done in last 10 years, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer "We started to look like the proper team," Solskjaer said. "We started to look on the front foot, the team that I like to see. "We want to be on the front but we want to be more aggressive as well. We got a couple of good results but today was a big step back."

Premier League: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer rues 'big step backwards' after limp display in Man City loss

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said his side were able to dominate rivals Manchester United in their 2-0 victory at Old Trafford on Saturday by simply keeping them away from the ball with a relentless passing game.

City dominated&nbsp;from start to finish at Old Trafford, with Eric Bailly`s early own goal and Bernardo Silva's strike just before half time enough to earn Pep Guardiola`s side a first win over their rivals in their last five league meetings.

The scoreline was not a true reflection of City`s superiority. The visitors completed 753 passes in the match - the most any team has made in a Premier League game against United since 2003-04 - when Opta began recording pass data.

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"The players deserve my pride, my admiration," Guardiola said. "We played a really good game from the beginning until the end. The best way to silence Old Trafford is to have the ball, and make pass, pass, pass.

"They have some amazing players, Cristiano (Ronaldo), (Marcus) Rashford, and the only way to stop them is more passes, more passes. We will have a lot of chances in this way, but the chances will be more clear and that will win games.

"We played our game. The players in the middle we have are amazing - Rodri does an exceptional job and Kevin (De Bruyne) is back today in his level. Having the ball like we do is the only way you can control."

Guardiola refused to be overly critical of a United side who have now lost three of their last four home league games.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-to-respect-what-manchester-city-have-done-in-last-10-years-says-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-427182">Have to respect what Manchester City have done in last 10 years, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a>

"I can never analyse or judge an opponent too much," he added. "The games have been quite similar the last previous seasons that they beat us.

"They waited for us to make one mistake and they punished us on the counter. They never control the games. Today we were exceptional."

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said his side were able to dominate rivals Manchester United in their 2-0 victory at Old Trafford on Saturday by simply keeping them away from the ball with a relentless passing game.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said his side were able to dominate rivals Manchester United in their 2-0 victory at Old Trafford on Saturday by simply keeping them away from the ball with a relentless passing game. City dominated from start to finish at Old Trafford, with Eric Bailly`s early own goal and Bernardo Silva's strike just before half time enough to earn Pep Guardiola`s side a first win over their rivals in their last five league meetings. The scoreline was not a true reflection of City`s superiority. The visitors completed 753 passes in the match - the most any team has made in a Premier League game against United since 2003-04 - when Opta began recording pass data. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester City outclass crisis-hit Manchester United "The players deserve my pride, my admiration," Guardiola said. "We played a really good game from the beginning until the end. The best way to silence Old Trafford is to have the ball, and make pass, pass, pass. "They have some amazing players, Cristiano (Ronaldo), (Marcus) Rashford, and the only way to stop them is more passes, more passes. We will have a lot of chances in this way, but the chances will be more clear and that will win games. "We played our game. The players in the middle we have are amazing - Rodri does an exceptional job and Kevin (De Bruyne) is back today in his level. Having the ball like we do is the only way you can control." Guardiola refused to be overly critical of a United side who have now lost three of their last four home league games. ALSO READ: Have to respect what Manchester City have done in last 10 years, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer "I can never analyse or judge an opponent too much," he added. "The games have been quite similar the last previous seasons that they beat us. "They waited for us to make one mistake and they punished us on the counter. They never control the games. Today we were exceptional."

'Best way to silence United is pass, pass, pass': Pep Guardiola on Manchester City dominance

Manchester United suffered another home humiliation as Manchester City cruised to a 2-0 win at Old Trafford on Saturday to raise further questions over the future of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Eric Bailly's own goal and Bernardo Silva's strike on the stroke of half-time was the difference between the sides on the scoreboard.

But that did little justice to the chasm between the teams as only a string of stunning saves from David De Gea prevented United from a thrashing similar to the 5-0 humbling they were handed by Liverpool less than two weeks ago.

Solskjaer bought himself some time with a 3-0 win at Tottenham last weekend.

But United have now won just one of their last six Premier League games and could finish the day 11 points off the top of the table should Chelsea beat Burnley at Stamford Bridge.

Solskjaer's switch to a back five worked a treat at Spurs, but that owed much to the return of Raphael Varane from injury.

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Without the French World Cup winner, who sustained a hamstring injury against Atalanta on Wednesday, the Norwegian's decision to retain the same system quickly backfired.

Bailly was included for the first time in the Premier League this season and took only seven minutes to give City the perfect start when he sliced Joao Cancelo's cross into his own goal.

United have won just five of Cristiano Ronaldo's 13 appearances since the five-time Ballon d'Or winner returned to the club.

Had things gone differently in the final days of August, Ronaldo could have been lining up for City as they pursued the 36-year-old to fill the void left by Sergio Aguero.

Ronaldo's goalscoring heroics have kept United alive in the Champions League, but he has netted just once in the last six Premier League games.

Boos

The Portuguese nearly bailed out a terrible first 45 minutes from the Red Devils when his volley was brilliantly saved by Ederson and Mason Greenwood failed to turn the rebound into an empty net.

But it was De Gea who was by far the busier 'keeper.

The Spaniard spread himself to miraculously block from Gabriel Jesus before saving from Cancelo, Kevin De Bruyne and denying a second own goal off the boot of Victor Lindelof.

However, even De Gea was at fault for City's second when Silva got an outstretched leg to Cancelo's cross and the United stopper flapped the ball into his own net.

Boos greeted the half-time whistle as the travelling City support gleefully chanted "Ole's at the wheel" to mock the United boss.

Solskjaer responded by introducing former City winger Jadon Sancho, who has failed to hold down a place in the United team in recent weeks despite costing £73 million ($98 million) to sign from Borussia Dortmund in July.

Sancho injected a little more pace into the United attack, but the home side were still barely able to sustain any pressure as City's passing triangles left them chasing shadows in the Manchester rain.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-boss-pep-guardiola-plays-down-hype-ahead-of-manchester-derby-427029">Premier League: Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola plays down hype ahead of Manchester derby</a>

Phil Foden hit the post and Jesus had strong appeals for a penalty waived away as City could easily have won by a far more comprehensive margin.

A shock 2-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace last weekend left Pep Guardiola's men with little margin for error in the title race.

City, though, have often saved their best performances for the big occasion this season as they have now taken seven points from a possible nine in away games against Chelsea, Liverpool and United.

Chelsea's lead at the top of the table is cut to two points as City move up to second, a point ahead of Liverpool, who travel to West Ham on Sunday.

Manchester United suffered another home humiliation as Manchester City cruised to a 2-0 win at Old Trafford on Saturday to raise further questions over the future of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Manchester United suffered another home humiliation as Manchester City cruised to a 2-0 win at Old Trafford on Saturday to raise further questions over the future of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Eric Bailly's own goal and Bernardo Silva's strike on the stroke of half-time was the difference between the sides on the scoreboard. But that did little justice to the chasm between the teams as only a string of stunning saves from David De Gea prevented United from a thrashing similar to the 5-0 humbling they were handed by Liverpool less than two weeks ago. Solskjaer bought himself some time with a 3-0 win at Tottenham last weekend. But United have now won just one of their last six Premier League games and could finish the day 11 points off the top of the table should Chelsea beat Burnley at Stamford Bridge. Solskjaer's switch to a back five worked a treat at Spurs, but that owed much to the return of Raphael Varane from injury. ALSO READ: Have to respect what Manchester City have done in last 10 years, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Without the French World Cup winner, who sustained a hamstring injury against Atalanta on Wednesday, the Norwegian's decision to retain the same system quickly backfired. Bailly was included for the first time in the Premier League this season and took only seven minutes to give City the perfect start when he sliced Joao Cancelo's cross into his own goal. United have won just five of Cristiano Ronaldo's 13 appearances since the five-time Ballon d'Or winner returned to the club. Had things gone differently in the final days of August, Ronaldo could have been lining up for City as they pursued the 36-year-old to fill the void left by Sergio Aguero. Ronaldo's goalscoring heroics have kept United alive in the Champions League, but he has netted just once in the last six Premier League games. Boos The Portuguese nearly bailed out a terrible first 45 minutes from the Red Devils when his volley was brilliantly saved by Ederson and Mason Greenwood failed to turn the rebound into an empty net. But it was De Gea who was by far the busier 'keeper. The Spaniard spread himself to miraculously block from Gabriel Jesus before saving from Cancelo, Kevin De Bruyne and denying a second own goal off the boot of Victor Lindelof. However, even De Gea was at fault for City's second when Silva got an outstretched leg to Cancelo's cross and the United stopper flapped the ball into his own net. Boos greeted the half-time whistle as the travelling City support gleefully chanted "Ole's at the wheel" to mock the United boss. Solskjaer responded by introducing former City winger Jadon Sancho, who has failed to hold down a place in the United team in recent weeks despite costing £73 million ($98 million) to sign from Borussia Dortmund in July. Sancho injected a little more pace into the United attack, but the home side were still barely able to sustain any pressure as City's passing triangles left them chasing shadows in the Manchester rain. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola plays down hype ahead of Manchester derby Phil Foden hit the post and Jesus had strong appeals for a penalty waived away as City could easily have won by a far more comprehensive margin. A shock 2-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace last weekend left Pep Guardiola's men with little margin for error in the title race. City, though, have often saved their best performances for the big occasion this season as they have now taken seven points from a possible nine in away games against Chelsea, Liverpool and United. Chelsea's lead at the top of the table is cut to two points as City move up to second, a point ahead of Liverpool, who travel to West Ham on Sunday.

Premier League: Manchester City outclass crisis-hit Manchester United

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted their crosstown rivals Manchester City have achieved tremendous success but his side still remains to be the top club in Manchester.

United will be facing their crosstown rivals Manchester City for their next Premier League encounter on Saturday.

Manchester City have won five league titles in the last decade, with United having won just one Premier League trophy in that same time span.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-boss-pep-guardiola-plays-down-hype-ahead-of-manchester-derby-427029">Premier League: Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola plays down hype ahead of Manchester derby</a>

"The thing is, you have to have respect for what they (United) have done in the last 10 years or even more so in the last four or five with how dominant they have been in England and in Europe.

But we are Man Utd, we are always going to come back, I think we are the number one club in Manchester and that also probably means in the world," said Ole Solskjaer as reported by Goal.com

United is at the fifth spot with a total of 17 points while City is at the third spot with 20 points.&nbsp;

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted their crosstown rivals Manchester City have achieved tremendous success but his side still remains to be the top club in Manchester.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted their crosstown rivals Manchester City have achieved tremendous success but his side still remains to be the top club in Manchester. United will be facing their crosstown rivals Manchester City for their next Premier League encounter on Saturday. Manchester City have won five league titles in the last decade, with United having won just one Premier League trophy in that same time span. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola plays down hype ahead of Manchester derby "The thing is, you have to have respect for what they (United) have done in the last 10 years or even more so in the last four or five with how dominant they have been in England and in Europe. But we are Man Utd, we are always going to come back, I think we are the number one club in Manchester and that also probably means in the world," said Ole Solskjaer as reported by Goal.com United is at the fifth spot with a total of 17 points while City is at the third spot with 20 points.

Have to respect what Manchester City have done in last 10 years, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Friday refused to get caught up in the hype surrounding the weekend derby at Manchester United, saying it was special for the fans but was not like playing in a semi-final or final.

City travel to Old Trafford in the Premier League on Saturday, with Guardiola`s side three points ahead of their rivals after 10 games.

Asked if it was the biggest game for him, Guardiola replied: "I don`t think so, maybe for some people. We try to make every game important. Of course derbies are special for many sentimental issues but we want the same results.

"But in the end it is not a final or a semi-final.

"I don`t go to restaurants or pubs. I can imagine how important it is for both sides, but I have to be cool in my mind and head, to know what we have to do, to do our best, no more than that."

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City bounced back from a 2-0 home defeat by Crystal Palace in the Premier League last weekend with a thumping 4-1 win over Brugge in the Champions League in midweek.

Guardiola added City can cope without a traditional number nine and have enough players to score goals, amid criticism that the champions are struggling without a top-class striker.

"Just trust a bit how many goals we scored last year without a striker because Sergio (Aguero) was injured? Maybe in the future we will buy a proper striker a number nine who will score goals, who knows," he said.

Third-placed City have scored 20 goals in the Premier League this season, nine fewer than Liverpool in second and six behind leaders Chelsea.

"When you don`t score goals it is `be calm for the next one`. When you score it is `be calm` for the next one`. In three days we don`t need a striker and then after that we need to buy seven strikers. We need to be calm and go out and play our game."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-qualifier-jadon-sancho-left-out-of-england-squad-marcus-rashford-and-jude-bellingham-recalled-426727">World Cup qualifier: Jadon Sancho left out of England squad, Marcus Rashford and Jude Bellingham recalled</a>

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has won four of his eight meetings with Guardiola in all competitions, with the Spaniard saying that the addition of Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo had made the opposition stronger.

"With Ronaldo they`re even better... they do get their results against us... incredible physicality, people up front with ability to win games by themselves. Good runners in behind especially when (midfielder Bruno) Fernandes has the ball." 
&nbsp;

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Friday refused to get caught up in the hype surrounding the weekend derby at Manchester United, saying it was special for the fans but was not like playing in a semi-final or final.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Friday refused to get caught up in the hype surrounding the weekend derby at Manchester United, saying it was special for the fans but was not like playing in a semi-final or final. City travel to Old Trafford in the Premier League on Saturday, with Guardiola`s side three points ahead of their rivals after 10 games. Asked if it was the biggest game for him, Guardiola replied: "I don`t think so, maybe for some people. We try to make every game important. Of course derbies are special for many sentimental issues but we want the same results. "But in the end it is not a final or a semi-final. "I don`t go to restaurants or pubs. I can imagine how important it is for both sides, but I have to be cool in my mind and head, to know what we have to do, to do our best, no more than that." ALSO READ: Xavi Hernandez set to become Barcelona's new coach as Al Sadd and Barca reach agreement City bounced back from a 2-0 home defeat by Crystal Palace in the Premier League last weekend with a thumping 4-1 win over Brugge in the Champions League in midweek. Guardiola added City can cope without a traditional number nine and have enough players to score goals, amid criticism that the champions are struggling without a top-class striker. "Just trust a bit how many goals we scored last year without a striker because Sergio (Aguero) was injured? Maybe in the future we will buy a proper striker a number nine who will score goals, who knows," he said. Third-placed City have scored 20 goals in the Premier League this season, nine fewer than Liverpool in second and six behind leaders Chelsea. "When you don`t score goals it is `be calm for the next one`. When you score it is `be calm` for the next one`. In three days we don`t need a striker and then after that we need to buy seven strikers. We need to be calm and go out and play our game." ALSO READ | World Cup qualifier: Jadon Sancho left out of England squad, Marcus Rashford and Jude Bellingham recalled United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has won four of his eight meetings with Guardiola in all competitions, with the Spaniard saying that the addition of Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo had made the opposition stronger. "With Ronaldo they`re even better... they do get their results against us... incredible physicality, people up front with ability to win games by themselves. Good runners in behind especially when (midfielder Bruno) Fernandes has the ball."

Premier League: Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola plays down hype ahead of Manchester derby

Pep Guardiola drew first blood in his renewed managerial duel with Jose Mourinho as Manchester City deservedly won an absorbing Premier League derby 2-1 against Manchester United at Old Trafford today. 
 
Kevin de Bruyne, who was never appreciated by Mourinho when they were at Chelsea together, proved instrumental in City&#39;s magnificent win, scoring the opener and making the second for Kelechi Iheanacho before halftime. 
 
With his side being outpassed and outclassed in a one-sided first half, Zlatan Ibrahimovic brought United back into the match just before the break after a mistake by City&#39;s new goalkeeper Claudio Bravo. 
 
Bravo&#39;s error on a hugely unconvincing debut inspired a much more even second half and Ibrahimovic had goal ruled out for offside before man of the match De Bruyne hit the post as City maintained their 100 percent record this season to move three points clear at the top of the table. 
 
After months of hype in Manchester - and well beyond -following the appointment of the two great managerial foes, it was Guardiola&#39;s side who initially took complete control of a game that was being billed as one the whole world was watching. 
 
For much of the first half, City&#39;s slick passing and neat movement brought back memories of the way Guardiola&#39;s old Barcelona side would once often pass rings round Mourinho&#39;s Real Madrid. 
 
Yet the initial breakthrough came from an unGuardiola-like route one approach in the 15th minute, Aleksandar Kolarov&#39;s hoofed ball being met by a flicked header from Iheanacho which allowed the excellent De Bruyne to nip in past a leaden-footed Daley Blind and fire home. 
 
Iheanacho, ensuring that suspended Sergio Aguero was not unduly missed up front, underlined City&#39;s dominance, tapping home after De Bruyne&#39;s 36th-minute left-footed strike had come back off the post. 
 
United were offered a lifeline when Bravo, whose signing to replace City favourite Joe Hart has been the most controversial move of Guardiola&#39;s brief reign, failed to claim a straightforward free kick from the right flank. 
 
He dropped the ball under no great pressure, allowing the alert Ibrahimovic to volley home from the edge of the box and quite transform the game&#39;s dynamic. 
 
Bravo looked a bag of nerves and nearly presented United with an equaliser before halftime and when Mourinho sought a more positive approach from his side with a double substitution at halftime, youngster Marcus Rashford made an immediate impact. 
 
The teenager&#39;s 70th-minute shot left Bravo well beaten but the goal was ruled out as it had brushed off the shin of Ibrahimovic, who was standing offside. 
 
The hapless Bravo could easily have given away a penalty with a studs-up challenge on an infuriated Wayne Rooney but City regained their composure, defended with resolve and could have wrapped up a more emphatic victory when De Bruyne&#39;s late shot hit the post and ran across the face of goal. 
 
(Reuters)

Kevin de Bruyne, never appreciated by Mourinho when they were at Chelsea together, proved instrumental in City's magnificent win

Pep Guardiola drew first blood in his renewed managerial duel with Jose Mourinho as Manchester City deservedly won an absorbing Premier League derby 2-1 against Manchester United at Old Trafford today. Kevin de Bruyne, who was never appreciated by Mourinho when they were at Chelsea together, proved instrumental in City's magnificent win, scoring the opener and making the second for Kelechi Iheanacho before halftime. With his side being outpassed and outclassed in a one-sided first half, Zlatan Ibrahimovic brought United back into the match just before the break after a mistake by City's new goalkeeper Claudio Bravo. Bravo's error on a hugely unconvincing debut inspired a much more even second half and Ibrahimovic had goal ruled out for offside before man of the match De Bruyne hit the post as City maintained their 100 percent record this season to move three points clear at the top of the table. After months of hype in Manchester - and well beyond -following the appointment of the two great managerial foes, it was Guardiola's side who initially took complete control of a game that was being billed as one the whole world was watching. For much of the first half, City's slick passing and neat movement brought back memories of the way Guardiola's old Barcelona side would once often pass rings round Mourinho's Real Madrid. Yet the initial breakthrough came from an unGuardiola-like route one approach in the 15th minute, Aleksandar Kolarov's hoofed ball being met by a flicked header from Iheanacho which allowed the excellent De Bruyne to nip in past a leaden-footed Daley Blind and fire home. Iheanacho, ensuring that suspended Sergio Aguero was not unduly missed up front, underlined City's dominance, tapping home after De Bruyne's 36th-minute left-footed strike had come back off the post. United were offered a lifeline when Bravo, whose signing to replace City favourite Joe Hart has been the most controversial move of Guardiola's brief reign, failed to claim a straightforward free kick from the right flank. He dropped the ball under no great pressure, allowing the alert Ibrahimovic to volley home from the edge of the box and quite transform the game's dynamic. Bravo looked a bag of nerves and nearly presented United with an equaliser before halftime and when Mourinho sought a more positive approach from his side with a double substitution at halftime, youngster Marcus Rashford made an immediate impact. The teenager's 70th-minute shot left Bravo well beaten but the goal was ruled out as it had brushed off the shin of Ibrahimovic, who was standing offside. The hapless Bravo could easily have given away a penalty with a studs-up challenge on an infuriated Wayne Rooney but City regained their composure, defended with resolve and could have wrapped up a more emphatic victory when De Bruyne's late shot hit the post and ran across the face of goal. (Reuters)

Manchester derby: Guardiola 2, Mourinho 1

The arrival of old adversaries Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola into the respective Manchester United and Manchester City hotseats has made Saturday&#39;s Old Trafford derby one of the most eagerly-anticipated for years. 
 
Unprecedented global viewing figures are expected for the lunchtime (5 pm India time) clash, 900 million by some estimates, while the starting line-ups are expected to be the most costly in the history of the sport. 
 
Despite all the hype, however, the match will do well to live up to some of the Manchester derby tussles down the years. 
 
Here are five of the most memorable: 
 
April 1974 - Man United 0 Man City 1 
 
One of the most talked-about derbies ever. Former United great Denis Law decided the match with a backheel but he refused to celebrate in front of the Old Trafford faithful, thinking his goal had condemned United to relegation from the top flight. 
 
A pitch invasion meant the game was not completed but the result stood, although as it turned out United would have gone down anyway. Law, who scored 237 goals in 404 appearances for United, was draped in a United scarf by a fan soon after scoring and never played another league game for City. 
 
September 2009 - Man United 4 Man City 3 
 
Regarded as the most exciting derby ever, United were pegged back three times by big-spending City before Michael Owen scored a 96th-minute winner to spark delirium in the stands. 
 
City, with a 100 million pounds worth of summer signings including former United striker Carlos Tevez, in their ranks were upwardly mobile with the new Abu Dhabi owners&#39; investing heavily on dragging the club out of United&#39;s shadow. 
 
Wayne Rooney put United ahead inside two minutes before Gareth Barry levelled for Mark Hughes&#39;s side. Darren Fletcher then headed home but Craig Bellamy levelled again. 
 
Bellamy cancelled out another Fletcher goal in the final minute but as City searched for a winner United broke and Ryan Giggs&#39;s superb through ball found Owen who scored an unforgettable stoppage-time winner. 
 
Hughes was sacked two months later and replaced by Roberto Mancini who eventually delivered the Premier League title. 
 
October 2011 - Man United 1 Man City 6 
 
A landmark early-season victory for City who delivered the ultimate slap in the face to their rivals by inflicting their worst home defeat since 1955, leaving United manager Alex Ferguson to rue his &quot;worst ever day&quot; in charge. 
 
Mancini&#39;s side, who went on to snatch United&#39;s title on an epic final day of the season, were leading with Mario Balotelli goals either side of the interval and went on the rampage after United had Jonny Evans sent off. 
 
Edin Dzeko also scored twice as the club Ferguson derided as &quot;noisy neighbours&quot; offered emphatic evidence of a shift in power in Britain&#39;s north west. 
 
November 1993 - Man City 2 Man United 3 
 
United talisman Eric Cantona often proved a thorn in City&#39;s side, scoring eight times in seven meetings, and so it proved again in a topsy-turvy clash at Maine Road. 
 
United were smarting from a midweek Champions League exit against Galatasaray and things looked to be going from bad to worse when, against the run of play, Niall Quinn scored twice past Peter Schmeichel to give City a 2-0 halftime lead. 
 
Mark Hughes was lucky not to receive a red card for United but they hit back with Cantona halving the deficit and levelling from a Ryan Giggs cross after 78 minutes. 
 
Roy Keane arrived at the far post to turn in a late winner. 
 
April 2001 - Man United 1 Man City 1 
 
If any derby encapsulated the passions aroused by the fixture, this late-season offering was it. A messy game would not have stood out long in the memory but for an awful, and now infamous, knee-high assault by Roy Keane on Alf-Inge Haaland. 
 
A long-running feud between the pair, stemming from when Haaland accused Keane of feigning injury while the Norwegian played for Leeds in 1997, boiled over when Keane produced a lunged in wildly with a tackle that left Haaland in a heap. 
 
Keane, who was banned for three games, later admitted in his autobiography it had been a pre-meditated attack, saying he had &quot;waited long enough&quot;. 
 
(Reuters)

Saturday's Old Trafford derby is one of the most eagerly-anticipated, but before that we look back at five other memorable ManU-ManC clashes

The arrival of old adversaries Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola into the respective Manchester United and Manchester City hotseats has made Saturday's Old Trafford derby one of the most eagerly-anticipated for years. Unprecedented global viewing figures are expected for the lunchtime (5 pm India time) clash, 900 million by some estimates, while the starting line-ups are expected to be the most costly in the history of the sport. Despite all the hype, however, the match will do well to live up to some of the Manchester derby tussles down the years. Here are five of the most memorable: April 1974 - Man United 0 Man City 1 One of the most talked-about derbies ever. Former United great Denis Law decided the match with a backheel but he refused to celebrate in front of the Old Trafford faithful, thinking his goal had condemned United to relegation from the top flight. A pitch invasion meant the game was not completed but the result stood, although as it turned out United would have gone down anyway. Law, who scored 237 goals in 404 appearances for United, was draped in a United scarf by a fan soon after scoring and never played another league game for City. September 2009 - Man United 4 Man City 3 Regarded as the most exciting derby ever, United were pegged back three times by big-spending City before Michael Owen scored a 96th-minute winner to spark delirium in the stands. City, with a 100 million pounds worth of summer signings including former United striker Carlos Tevez, in their ranks were upwardly mobile with the new Abu Dhabi owners' investing heavily on dragging the club out of United's shadow. Wayne Rooney put United ahead inside two minutes before Gareth Barry levelled for Mark Hughes's side. Darren Fletcher then headed home but Craig Bellamy levelled again. Bellamy cancelled out another Fletcher goal in the final minute but as City searched for a winner United broke and Ryan Giggs's superb through ball found Owen who scored an unforgettable stoppage-time winner. Hughes was sacked two months later and replaced by Roberto Mancini who eventually delivered the Premier League title. October 2011 - Man United 1 Man City 6 A landmark early-season victory for City who delivered the ultimate slap in the face to their rivals by inflicting their worst home defeat since 1955, leaving United manager Alex Ferguson to rue his "worst ever day" in charge. Mancini's side, who went on to snatch United's title on an epic final day of the season, were leading with Mario Balotelli goals either side of the interval and went on the rampage after United had Jonny Evans sent off. Edin Dzeko also scored twice as the club Ferguson derided as "noisy neighbours" offered emphatic evidence of a shift in power in Britain's north west. November 1993 - Man City 2 Man United 3 United talisman Eric Cantona often proved a thorn in City's side, scoring eight times in seven meetings, and so it proved again in a topsy-turvy clash at Maine Road. United were smarting from a midweek Champions League exit against Galatasaray and things looked to be going from bad to worse when, against the run of play, Niall Quinn scored twice past Peter Schmeichel to give City a 2-0 halftime lead. Mark Hughes was lucky not to receive a red card for United but they hit back with Cantona halving the deficit and levelling from a Ryan Giggs cross after 78 minutes. Roy Keane arrived at the far post to turn in a late winner. April 2001 - Man United 1 Man City 1 If any derby encapsulated the passions aroused by the fixture, this late-season offering was it. A messy game would not have stood out long in the memory but for an awful, and now infamous, knee-high assault by Roy Keane on Alf-Inge Haaland. A long-running feud between the pair, stemming from when Haaland accused Keane of feigning injury while the Norwegian played for Leeds in 1997, boiled over when Keane produced a lunged in wildly with a tackle that left Haaland in a heap. Keane, who was banned for three games, later admitted in his autobiography it had been a pre-meditated attack, saying he had "waited long enough". (Reuters)