Manchester United and Manchester City drew 0-0 in the 196th Manchester Derby. The match lacked quality in attack and was quite frankly, boring. Here is how it unfolded and what is next for Ruben Amprim’s side.
Match Flow
The first half was primarily controlled by Manchester City, though the visitors failed to find the net. Despite having 62% possession, City only managed four shots and United had the best opportunities of the half.
The early going in the second half followed the pattern of the first half. City had more of the ball, but neither side attacked decisively, with very little coming in the final third.
Manchester United nearly broke the deadlock with a swift attack in the 77th minute. A quick break led to an opportunity to cross by Patrick Dorgu, who found Joshua Zirkzee near the penalty spot. However, Ederson smartly saved the Dutchman’s flicked effort, with Mount’s subsequent volley blocked by a defender.
United finished the match positively, creating a couple of half-chances and breaking up City’s play well. In the end, it didn’t matter, and both sides kept clean sheets, leading to a 0-0 Derby draw.
Talking Point
Manchester United’s attack let the team down again. Alejandro Garnacho’s struggles in the final third have been glaring, as the Argentine has been unable to provide decisive moments despite seeing so much of the ball. Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee failed to score again, and Bruno Fernandes, who has been in stunning form, also could not find the net.
With the Europa League Quarter-Final beginning on Thursday, the attacking struggles are worrying, though the clean sheet is a positive to take into the critical tie.
Next Match
Manchester United travel to face Lyon on Thursday for the first leg of the Europa League Quarter-Final. Lyon, who sit fifth in Ligue 1, will provide a stern test for the Reds and are one of the few teams remaining between Ruben Amorim’s team and the Champions League.
United Beyond Manchester 
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