‘Incredible’: Pep Guardiola and Erling Haaland praise one Manchester United star after derby
Manchester City secured a dominant 3-0 victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford in a derby match that proved to be another difficult one for the losing side.
In January, there was much hope after United’s 2-1 win over City at Old Trafford. However, the recent match this past Sunday highlighted numerous drawbacks.
The 3-0 win by City emphasized the continued disparity between the two teams, showing that Erik ten Hag’s team is struggling to bridge the gap.
Yet, if there’s a silver lining to be found, it’s in Andre Onana’s performance.
During the game, Onana, playing for Manchester United, made seven crucial saves, significantly contributing to maintaining a respectable scoreline.
Pep Guardiola, the City manager, particularly commended Onana’s exceptional two-handed diving save that denied Erling Haaland’s close-range header just before halftime.
City boss Pep Guardiola told BBC Sport: “Erling had an incredible chance at the end of the first half and Onana makes an incredible save.”
Guardiola also praised his own goalkeeper, Ederson, for a great save against Scott McTominay. He said: “They had one chance with McTominay and Ederson makes a great save but in the second half, after the second goal, we were at our highest.”
Even Haaland, the City striker, joined in praising Onana for his saves, highlighting the incredible efforts made by the United goalkeeper during and after the halftime break.
He told City’s media: “It was an incredible save right before the half time. He did another fantastic save in the second half when I chipped it, he saved it with his head. It is what it is. We won.”
Onana’s exceptional performance showcased the disparity in United’s outfield players. His recent penalty save against Copenhagen boosted his confidence and possibly marks a turning point in his career at United.
His consistent performance since the international break is a positive sign. If he maintains this level of play, it could alleviate some pressure for Erik ten Hag, who faces challenges in several other areas within the team.
‘Incredible’: Pep Guardiola and Erling Haaland praise one Manchester United star after derby
