Phil Foden Sees Red as Manchester Derby Turns Heated

Manchester: Phil Foden was sent off early in the Manchester derby after an incident involving Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes left Manchester City playing with 10 men at Old Trafford.

The dismissal came in the 23rd minute during an otherwise even opening half. Foden had been challenged by Fernandes near the touchline and ended up on the ground with the ball underneath him.

As Fernandes attempted to play the ball, he made contact with Foden’s lower back. Foden reacted while still on the ground, kicking out with both feet and making contact with Fernandes in the stomach.

Referee Michael Oliver immediately showed Foden a straight red card. The decision was subsequently reviewed by VAR and upheld.

The Premier League Match Centre characterized the incident as a kick directed into Fernandes’ body. VAR official Matt Donohue also supported the sending-off decision.

Foden’s dismissal was particularly notable for Manchester City, as he became the club’s first player to be sent off in a Manchester derby since 2006.

Fernandes was not booked for his part in the sequence. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville questioned that decision during commentary, saying he was surprised the Portuguese midfielder escaped a yellow card.

Foden left the field and headed down the tunnel after receiving the red card, leaving Manchester City to continue the derby with a numerical disadvantage.