Manchester United and Manchester City played out a goalless draw at Old Trafford on Sunday, leaving both teams with plenty of questions as the Premier League season nears its final stretch.
The much-anticipated derby between the city rivals failed to deliver goals or excitement, with both sides looking short on ideas and energy. While Manchester City dominated possession for large parts of the game, it was Manchester United who came closer to breaking the deadlock through counter-attacks.
The match was a missed opportunity for City, who are currently chasing a spot in next season’s Champions League. They remain in fifth place, a position that could be enough for qualification, depending on how the rest of the European spots shake out. However, with Newcastle United only two points behind and holding two games in hand, the pressure is mounting on Pep Guardiola’s men.
For Manchester United, the draw pushes them up to 13th in the table. Their chances of securing Champions League football next season now largely depend on success in the Europa League, as their league form continues to disappoint.
The game itself reflected the poor seasons both clubs are experiencing. There was little intensity, and few clear chances. Phil Foden had the best opportunity early in the second half but failed to beat United keeper Andre Onana. On the other end, United’s attackers—Alejandro Garnacho, Patrick Dorgu, and Manuel Ugarte—each found themselves in promising positions but couldn’t convert.
City veteran Kevin De Bruyne, who recently revealed that this will be his last season with the club, started the game but looked far from his best. His subdued performance mirrored City’s current dip in form following years of dominance. The team is at risk of missing out on a top-four finish for the first time since the 2009/10 season.
United made a late push to win the game with the introduction of Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount. Zirkzee forced a strong save from Ederson, and Mount’s follow-up was blocked by Rico Lewis. Despite those chances, neither side could find a breakthrough.
