The Manchester derby began with plenty of physicality before tensions escalated in the 23rd minute, when Manchester City’s Phil Foden was shown a straight red card during Sunday’s clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Foden was on the ground when Bruno Fernandes kicked him in the back before swinging his leg around the City midfielder in an attempt to reach the ball, also making contact with the player.
- VIDEO: Pro Ref admit Man Utd VAR ‘error’ in unusual statement hours after Man City outrage
- VIDEO: Premier League release statement confirming why Haaland goal was given
The Manchester City star reacted instinctively by raising his boot and kicking Fernandes in the midsection.
Referee Michael Oliver immediately made his way over and dismissed Foden with a straight red card, while a VAR review did not result in any punishment for Fernandes.
There was some debate over whether Foden should have received a yellow card rather than being sent off, but it is worth remembering that football boots have metal studs underneath them.
: Camera angles clearly show Bruno Fernandes LASHED OUT at Phil Foden first before the City man retaliated.
Was Foden’s dismissal really DESERVED here? pic.twitter.com/sHx452Jk8I
— RazedFootball (@RazedFootball) September 13, 2026
A challenge of that nature can be dangerous and warrants a red card regardless of how important the match is.
However, Fernandes could still emerge as the Man of the Match because of his role in provoking the incident.
The Manchester United captain’s kick to Foden’s lower back was certainly capable of causing an injury just as much as Foden’s response.
VAR could not have recommended a yellow card for Fernandes; the only possible intervention would have been a red, which is presumably why the decision was left unchanged following the review.
Derby matches carry enormous significance, but the standards for disciplinary decisions cannot be lowered because of the occasion.
If Mikel Arteta believed Sunderland’s penalty against Arsenal could have a major impact on the title race, then this decision could have even greater consequences.
Do you think Fernandes could have been sent off? Should he have received a red card?
