United Beyond Manchester

Manchester United and Manchester City are about to play in the 192nd Manchester Derby. In this article, we look into the history, performances, and statistics that define this great rivalry.

Origins and Early Years:

The rivalry between Manchester United and Manchester City dates back to the late 19th century when both clubs were founded. Manchester United, originally known as Newton Heath LYR Football Club, was established in 1878, while Manchester City, initially named St. Mark’s (West Gorton), was founded in 1880. However, the rivalry didn’t truly intensify until the early 20th century when both teams started competing in the same league divisions.

Newton Heath won the first-ever meeting between the two sides in 1881. Both teams were in their infancy, and despite the proximity, there was no animosity between the sides yet.

The first Football League match between the two sides came in the 1894-1895 season. Newton Heath emerged victorious with a 5-2 win over St. Mark’s at Hyde Road.

Famous Wins for United

Matt Busby’s Final Game: In May of 1971, Manchester United won a thrilling derby 4-3 in Sir Matt Busby’s final game as manager. George Best, Denis Law, and Bobby Charlton all scored in the same game to give their manager a proper send-off.

The Destruction of Manchester City: The 1994-1995 season saw Manchester United finish 2nd in the Premier League, only one point behind Title winners Blackburn. It also saw United dismantle rivals Manchester City 5-0. Andrei Kanchelskis scored a hat-trick in a famous victory for the Reds. Kanchelskis scored fourteen goals that season in what was his best and last season in red.

The Paul Pogba Derby: On April 7, 2018, Manchester United had to win. Manchester City had a chance to win the title at the Etihad against the Reds. After 30 minutes, it looked like they were going to. Ilkay Gundogan and Vincent Kompany put City up 2-0 heading into half time, and it looked like it would be a famous Derby in City’s favor. However, it was Manchester United who got the famous win.

Jose Mourinho’s side came out of the half with a renewed spirit and had one back in the 53rd minute through Paul Pogba. Two minutes later, Pogba had a second through a towering header, and the match was level at two. In the 69th minute, Chris Smalling scored on a set piece to send the visiting fans into a frenzy and delay Manchester City’s title a little longer.

Heroic Performances

Paul Pogba’s masterclass was a fantastic showing of individual brilliance in the Manchester Derby. Let’s take a look at a few more.

Wayne Rooney’s Overhead Kick (2011): In a memorable Manchester Derby in February 2011, Wayne Rooney scored a stunning overhead kick in the 78th to secure a 2-1 victory for Manchester United at Old Trafford. This goal is regarded as the best in the history of the Derby and one of the best in Premier League history.

Alex Dawson Hat-Trick (1960): In December 1960, Manchester United thrashed City at Old Trafford. Center Forward Alex Dawson scored three goals for Matt Busby’s side in a 5-1 win. Dawson is one of eight players to score three in a Manchester Derby. United legend Bobby Charlton also had two in that match.

The 2011-2012 Title Race: United fans look away. In the 2011-2012 season, the most important Manchester Derby was the title race. Manchester City won the title on goal difference with a dramatic late goal by Sergio Aguero. Aguero scored in the 94th minute against QPR to give Manchester City the lead and the league.

All-Time Record

Manchester United leads the series with 78 wins in all competitions. Manchester City has 60 wins, and there have been 53 draws. In the Premier League, United leads the series 25-9-19.

Derby Statistical Leaders

Most Appearances: Ryan Giggs holds the record for the most appearances in Manchester Derby matches, having played in thirty-six encounters for Manchester United.

Top Scorers: Wayne Rooney is the all-time leading goal scorer in Manchester Derby history, having netted eleven goals for Manchester United. In Premier League matches, Rooney shares the record with Sergio Aguero on eight goals.

Largest Margin of Victory: Manchester United’s largest margin of victory in a Manchester Derby came in 1994 when they defeated Manchester City 5-0.

Longest Winning Streak: Manchester United holds the record for the longest winning streak in Manchester Derby history, winning eight consecutive matches between 1993 and 2000.

The Manchester Derby is steeped in history, drama, and intense competition. From its humble beginnings in the late 19th century to becoming one of the most anticipated fixtures in English football, the rivalry between Manchester United and Manchester City continues to captivate fans worldwide. With each match, new chapters are added to the storied history of this iconic Derby, ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come.