The first major flashpoint of the 199th Manchester derby came after 23 minutes, as Phil Foden was shown a straight red card by referee Michael Oliver for violent conduct towards United captain Bruno Fernandes.
The hosts almost capitalised on the advantage before the interval but Marcus Rashford’s free-kick clipped the outside of the post.
After the interval, the woodwork denied United again as Kobbie Mainoo’s curling strike cannoned off the post and into the grateful arms of City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
On the hour mark, we made the breakthrough as Josko Gvardiol’s deflected cross found Haaland at the back post who struck into the top corner.
The goal was originally ruled out for offside, but after a lengthy VAR check, it was given, sending the away fans into a frenzy.
We had the momentum and almost made it two shortly afterwards, but Enzo Fernández saw his magnificent effort touched onto the post by United shot-stopper Senne Lammens.
Deep into stoppage time, Bryan Mbeumo was played through on goal and looked certain to score, but Donnarumma remained alert to expertly deny the goalbound strike.
And that proved to be enough as Enzo Maresca’s men made it four wins from our opening four Premier League fixtures for the seventh time in our history.
View the best images from the victory via our gallery below.
