In a goalless draw at Old Trafford, Manchester United and Manchester City both served up a largely uninspiring display that underlined the necessity for revolution at both clubs during the summer. Despite City's sporadic threats, United failed to find the net, leaving fans disappointed as their scoring blues continue.
Manchester United's Scoring Blues Continue
From the very first whistle, Alejandro Garnacho was eager to leave his impression for Manchester United with an early flourish that set the tone for the first 30 minutes. The home side passed the ball with purpose and created a number of chances around the City box. But as has been the trend in so many games this season, they were not able to make the most of these opportunities.
Garnacho tried a wayward header, while Patrick Dorgu dawdled on the chance of shooting with his better foot, having gone off-target in the end. New signing Rasmus Højlund started but could not make any telling impact, while Joshua Zirkzee, who was brought on, had his attempt saved by Ederson.
This match reflected Manchester United's season, where they have failed to score in 11 of 31 Premier League games. As a few pundits have observed, United lack a clinical finisher who can take these half-chances and make them count. While Andre Onana played a decent game in goal, United's inability to capitalize on their chances leaves them in the bottom half of the table.
Manchester City's Champions League Hopes Under Threat
While Manchester United remain mid-table, Manchester City are now anxiously waiting for their Champions League qualification. City are in fifth position, with Newcastle United two points behind and with two games in hand. With top-four finish needed to qualify for next season's Champions League, Pep Guardiola's team will need to step up their game in the second half of the season.
Kevin De Bruyne's Last Manchester Derby: A Look Back
One of the most heart-breaking moments of the game was when Kevin De Bruyne appeared before the kick-off for his last Manchester derby in Old Trafford before the running out of his contract this season. The 33-year-old Belgian super star who has been the backbone of City's turnaround in recent times was afforded a chance to showcase himself in what may well have been his last match in the historic Manchester derby.
De Bruyne tried some early attempts at breaks, like a shot on a Bernardo Silva pass and a through ball to Phil Foden, but neither of them challenged Onana. Although occasionally capable of beating Diogo Dalot, De Bruyne's creativity was subdued, his efforts at goal not being their usual precision.
It's apparent that De Bruyne's peak years may be beyond his head, as the aging playmaker was unable to restore his wizardly performances of previous seasons. While he is still a quality player, De Bruyne's decline was evident here.
Bruno Fernandes Inspires Off the Field
Even though the Manchester derby was not so exciting on the field, Bruno Fernandes created an inspiring moment off it. United's captain, who has been a part of the team so far this season, walked on to the field accompanied by seven-year-old Bobby Moore from Belfast, Manchester United's very first wheelchair mascot. Fernandes invited Moore to the match after watching a heart-touching video of him scoring a goal in a previous Manchester derby. This expression of oneness and unity was undoubtedly the most encouraging moment of the match.
What's Next for Both Clubs?
The Manchester derby draw both teams now with questions on their minds since the season is closing in. For Manchester United, their Premier League performance has been under par, and without the Champions League also out of reach, the club will be forced to plan for next year. The inability to have a clinical striker and better-rounded attack is obvious if ever they are to have a chance at finishing within upper ranks of the future.
For Manchester City, the pressure to qualify for Champions League football next season is building. Guardiola's team needs to up their game and deliver if they are to avoid missing out on Europe's top competition.
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