Enzo Maresca claimed he celebrated early for Erling Haalands controversial winner for 10-man Manchester City in the derby at Old Trafford as he knew it was not offside. Haaland secured a 1-0 victory for City over arch rivals Manchester United, which maintained their perfect Premier League start under Maresca, as he netted the games only goal on the hour mark, steering Josko Gvardiols deflected cross to the far post into the top-left corner.That goal was just reward for the way in which City adapted to going down to 10 men after Phil Foden was sent off for kicking Bruno Fernandes in the stomach in the 23rd minute.It looked as if it would not be allowed to stand as the offside flag cut short Haalands celebrations. However, a lengthy VAR check deemed Haaland was being played onside by Patrick Dorgu. Enzo Fernandez, who was offside and only narrowly failed to make contact with Gvardiols delivery, was ruled to not have interfered with play.While that decision left managerial counterpart Michael Carrick confused, City boss Maresca insisted it was obvious the goal was going to be allowed to stand.It was completely clear that the goal was not offside, Maresca told Sky Sports. In the moment I was told by the fourth official, I celebrated early, because I knew.Maresca heaped praise on the performance of Citys record signing Fernandez, and also had plenty of plaudits for goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who produced a brilliant save to deny Bryan Mbeumo late on after he was played through by Fernandes.Enzo Fernandez was unbelievable today and it was a nice for him to help us get the win, Maresca added. And oh my God, the save. Thats why Donnarummas here. Thats why we bought him because hes a fantastic goalkeeper.But the Italian took issue with referee Michael Olivers decision to only send Foden off following his altercation with Fernandes.Foden kicked out at Fernandes after the Portuguese appeared to foul him and then kick the City forward while he was on the ground. Maresca felt both infractions could be considered red card offences.The decision can be a red card for Foden, he said. But in the same action, it can be a red card for Bruno because he also kicks Phil. Topics Manchester City F.C. Manchester United F.C. Premier League Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Carrick confused by VAR decision to allow Haaland goal as he defends United derby display Nicholas McGee 13th September, 2026 Manchester United 0-1 Manchester City: Marescas 10 men claim controversial derby win Nicholas McGee 13th September, 2026 WATCH: Phil Foden sees red as Manchester City reduced to 10 men against Manchester United Jon Fisher 13th September, 2026 LIVE Manchester United v Manchester City: Commentary, updates, goals and stats Jon Fisher 13th September, 2026 Manchester United v Manchester City: Confirmed line-ups and team news as Shaw misses out Jon Fisher 13th September, 2026 Man United v Man City: Preview, expected line-ups and stats Nicholas McGee 13th September, 2026
