Former Premier League forward Gabriel Agbonlahor has publicly slammed Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, labelling him a “cheat” for his involvement in the incident that led to Phil Foden’s red card during Sunday’s Manchester derby. The fixture at Old Trafford concluded with a 1-0 victory for the visitors, despite Manchester City being reduced to ten men early in the match.
Reflecting on the dismissal during an appearance on talkSPORT’s Breakfast show, Agbonlahor argued that the Portuguese midfielder misled referee Michael Oliver. The confrontation occurred after a free-kick was awarded to Manchester City. Fernandes appeared to kick Foden twice; in retaliation, the England international struck Fernandes in the mid-riff while rising to his feet. Fernandes immediately collapsed, appearing to be in severe pain. Following the display, Oliver issued a red card to Foden in the 23rd minute.
Despite enjoying a numerical advantage for most of the contest, Michael Carrick’s side was unable to capitalize and ultimately fell to a narrow defeat. Fernandes struggled to make a significant impact throughout the match, managing to create only one notable chance, which was denied by a high-quality late save from goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
While the focus has largely remained on the officiating and the performance of figures like Erling Haaland and VAR official Matt Donohue, Manchester City substitute Iliman Ndiaye provided a standout display after his half-time introduction. Ndiaye proved instrumental in City’s victory, offering crucial defensive work and offensive drive. Statistically, the Senegalese forward became the first substitute since at least the 2003-04 season to attempt at least six dribbles and win five fouls in a single Premier League fixture. His ability to carry the ball served as a vital pressure valve for his side, effectively securing the win for the visitors. The report also notes that the Portugal international featured as the Red Devils succumbed to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of their city rivals at Old Trafford. The report also notes that at least, to attempt 5+ dribbles (six) and win 5+ fouls (five) in a game, ndiaye became the first City substitute since 2003-04. The report also notes that the former Aston Villa striker was adamant that Fernandes acted as a ‘cheat’ and conned referee Michael Oliver into sending off the Manchester City man. The report also notes that and he delivered to perfection, he was brought on at half-time to do a job only he could do.
