Maresca Says Manchester City Still Waiting for Apology After Derby 2026

Enzo Maresca, Manchester City's assistant manager, has reignited the debate over the controversial derby goal of 2023, stating that the club is still waiting for an apology from referees' chief Howard Webb. The Italian's comments come ahead of City's Carabao Cup clash with Norwich, as he reflected on a match-defining decision that he believes unfairly cost his side.

The 2023 Derby Controversy

In January 2023, Manchester United hosted Manchester City at Old Trafford in a tense Premier League derby. The game turned on a contentious equaliser from Bruno Fernandes, who scored despite Marcus Rashford being in an offside position and seemingly interfering with play. Rashford had been running onto a through ball but stopped, allowing Fernandes to take over and slot the ball past Ederson. The goal stood after a VAR review, and United went on to win 2-1, with Rashford scoring the winner minutes later.

Maresca, who was Pep Guardiola's assistant at the time, witnessed the incident firsthand. "The goal was not a regular goal, if you remember," Maresca said. "And to be honest, no one apologised. We are still waiting for the apology for that goal. Sometimes it happens for you, sometimes it happens against you. It's football."

Maresca's Frustration and City's Response

The assistant manager's remarks highlight lingering frustration over the lack of accountability from refereeing authorities. Despite the passage of time, the incident remains a sore point for City, especially as they felt it directly influenced the title race. However, Maresca acknowledged the unpredictable nature of football decisions, adding a pragmatic tone to his criticism.

City's focus now shifts to the Carabao Cup, where they face Norwich on Thursday. A win would give Maresca his first trophy at the club, a feat that Guardiola has achieved a record five times. The match also presents an opportunity for City to move past the recent derby disappointment, which saw Phil Foden sent off for kicking out at Fernandes, resulting in a three-match ban.

Phil Foden's Red Card and Reaction

Foden's dismissal added to City's woes in the latest Manchester derby. The young midfielder reacted poorly to a challenge from Fernandes, lashing out and earning a straight red card. Maresca revealed the emotional toll on Foden: "At half-time, he was very sad, very upset because he knew there was something wrong. Then after the game he was a little bit more relieved, he was a little bit more happy. And then yesterday he was very good. He knows the reaction was not a good one, but again, it's finished and we move on."

Foden will miss the upcoming fixtures, but his attitude in training has been positive, suggesting he will learn from the experience.

Comparing Derby Decisions: 2023 vs. 2024

The controversy surrounding the 2023 derby goal and the recent red card highlights the fine margins in top-flight football. Below is a comparison of the key decisions:

Key Takeaways

• Manchester City are still awaiting an apology for the controversial 2023 derby goal.
• Enzo Maresca believes the decision unfairly influenced the match.
• Phil Foden's red card adds to City's recent derby frustrations.
• City face Norwich in the Carabao Cup, aiming for Maresca's first trophy.

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