Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has backed Phil Foden’s red card in the 1-0 victory over Manchester United, but questioned why United captain Bruno Fernandes was not also dismissed during Sunday’s Manchester derby.
Foden was sent off in the 25th minute after kicking out at Fernandes following an altercation, leaving City with 10 men for more than an hour at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite the setback, Erling Haaland scored in the second half to secure victory for City and maintain their perfect start to the Premier League season.
Maresca agreed with referee Michael Oliver’s decision to dismiss Foden but argued that Fernandes should have received the same punishment for his involvement in the incident.
“Phil’s card is a red card, but I also think the same action is a red card by Bruno, [Fernandes],” Maresca told reporters. “I think reviewing the action, and I reviewed it immediately, it is a clear red card for Phil because it is a reaction.
“But you can also see Bruno [foul Foden]. But anyway, it is what it is. Red card, but we won.”
The City boss said the dismissal forced both teams to adjust their plans, particularly as United are dangerous when given space to attack in transition.
“We had a plan for 11 vs. 11, but after the red card, the game completely changed, but also for them.
“They [United] love transition and space in behind, but the game became more difficult with us and them
“We just drop, no space in behind and no more transitionm which is why the game was also more difficult for them.”
Haaland’s winner also generated a lengthy VAR review, with the City striker eventually judged to have been onside despite Enzo Fernandez’s position near the goal.
“Erling was onside,” Maresca said. “The fourth official told me this, he said it was only a question of the action in the centre. But I think it was completely clear that it was onside.
“Erling is working very good. We need to give him rest at some point because after the World Cup he cannot continue the same way all season.
“He is happy, you can see and as much as we keep Erling fit, we are all happy.
“As you say in English, happy wife, happy life. For us, it’s happy Erling, happy life.”
