Manchester City and Manchester United will face off in the Premier League this weekend, a match that has gained considerable importance over the last decade.
Once an unbalanced rivalry favoring United, Sheikh Mansour’s takeover of Manchester City changed the landscape of football in the city.
City has now overtaken United as the dominant club in the Premier League, making their rivalry more intense.
In anticipation of this weekend’s match, we look back at 10 key moments from the Manchester City and Manchester United rivalry.
10 key moments in the Manchester Derby rivalry:
Denis Law scores against his old club
Denis Law played for both clubs, with his best years spent at Manchester United, where he scored 237 goals and contributed to their first European Cup win in 1968.
Following his time at United, Law returned to Manchester City after being released in 1973.
During the 1973/74 season, United was struggling near the bottom of the table, and in a crucial derby match, Law scored a backheel goal late in the game, resulting in a 1-0 victory for City. He chose not to celebrate, believing his goal had relegated United.
The pitch invasion led to the game being suspended, but the FA allowed the result to stand. United was relegated just six years after being European champions.
Roy Keane’s revenge on Alf-Inge Haaland
The rivalry took a heated turn in 2001 between Roy Keane and Alf-Inge Haaland. Their tensions had started years earlier when Haaland criticized Keane after an injury incident.
In a later derby, Keane retaliated with a shocking tackle, earning a red card and a suspension. His autobiography comments led to a further ban.
Carlos Tevez’s controversial move
After the Abu Dhabi-led takeover, Manchester City made a significant signing in 2009 by acquiring Carlos Tevez, who had previously won titles with Manchester United.
This move was marked by a famous billboard saying “Welcome to Manchester,” which drew criticism from then-United manager Alex Ferguson.
Tevez became a key player for City, scoring 73 goals in 148 matches.
A thrilling draw in 2009
In another memorable clash, both teams scored three goals each in a thrilling encounter, with Michael Owen scoring a last-minute winner for United.
This match is often remembered as one of the best derbies, showcasing City’s growing strength.
Wayne Rooney’s stunning goal
In 2011, Wayne Rooney scored an unforgettable overhead kick, securing a victory for United and becoming a highlight of the derby’s history.
Yaya Toure’s FA Cup goal
Yaya Toure’s goal in the 2011 FA Cup semifinal against United marked a turning point for City, leading them to their first major trophy in 35 years.
City’s historic 6-1 victory
In 2011, City thrashed United 6-1 at Old Trafford, marking it as United’s heaviest home defeat in decades. This match showcased a significant shift in power.
Vincent Kompany’s crucial header
A few months later, Kompany’s header in a derby helped City take a crucial step towards the title, shifting the title race in their favor.
Aguero’s last-minute goal
In a dramatic finish to the 2011/12 season, Sergio Aguero scored in stoppage time against QPR, clinching the title for City in unforgettable fashion.
Gundogan’s quick strike in the FA Cup final
In the 2023 FA Cup final, Ilkay Gundogan scored the fastest goal in FA Cup final history. His performance helped City secure the trophy as they chased multiple titles.
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