This is What Amazed Me About Diogo Dalot Disaster in Man United vs Man City

In the electrifying Manchester Derby at Old Trafford, Manchester United secured a stunning 2-0 victory over Manchester City, marking Michael Carrick's first game as head coach. Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu in the second half propelled United to a performance full of energy and transition play, denting City's title hopes while boosting United's Champions League aspirations.[1][2][3]

The match's early controversy centered on Diogo Dalot's challenge on Jeremy Doku in the 10th minute. The Portuguese defender's knee-high tackle appeared reckless, yet referee Anthony Taylor issued only a yellow card, a decision upheld by VAR for lacking excessive force. This sparked outrage from City camp, with former Premier League referee Mike Dean declaring it should have been a "100 per cent red card".[1]

Pep Guardiola, despite bemoaning his side's lack of energy—"The better team won. They had energy we didn't have"—was adamant: "It's a red card—definitely." However, the City boss refused to blame the incident for the defeat, emphasizing United's superiority: "It would be poor as a manager to analyse that as the reason for the game."[1][3]

Bernardo Silva echoed the frustration, claiming City endure a season of 50-50 decisions going against them: "I watched the clip and it is a red card," though he conceded it wasn't the sole reason for loss. United hit the woodwork twice and had three goals disallowed for offside, showcasing dominance.[2]

What amazed observers most? The VAR's leniency in a high-stakes derby, allowing Dalot to stay on and United to maintain momentum with 11 men for 80 minutes. Guardiola praised United's start: "They start really strong." Carrick's side proved transitional threats lethal, leaving City exposed.[1][2][3]

This "Dalot disaster" highlights refereeing debates in the Premier League, but United's energy triumphed. City must regroup amid title race pressure.

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