What are the 10 most controversial moments in the history of the Manchester Derby?

The Manchester Derby is much more than a simple football match; it's a battle for pride, a rivalry that dates back decades and has given rise to some of the most controversial and exciting moments in the history of English football. This clash between Manchester United and Manchester City transcends the sporting realm and has become a symbol of the passion and intensity that characterize British football.

In every encounter, the players give their all, the fans are passionate about their teams, and the tension is palpable. And as in any great rivalry, controversy is always present, spicing up the matches with incidents that fuel the legend of the Manchester Derby.

Aggressions on the field: When passion exceeds limits

The intensity of the Manchester Derby often leads players to act at the limit of sportsmanship, starring in incidents that border on aggression. One of the most remembered occurred in 2002, when then Manchester United player Roy Keane delivered a brutal tackle to Alf-Inge Haaland, of Manchester City, an action that earned him a long suspension and further ignited the rivalry between the two clubs.

Another controversial episode occurred in 2011, when Mario Balotelli, City's striker, starred in a brawl with several United players after a hard foul on Alexander Kolarov. The incident, which ended with several yellow cards, highlighted the tension that was felt on the field and the predisposition of the players to cross the line.

Ghost goals and referee decisions: Controversy in every classic

Manchester Derbies have also been the scene of refereeing controversies, with decisions that have generated controversy and fueled the rivalry between the two teams. One of the most talked-about cases occurred in 2012, when referee Mark Clattenburg disallowed a legitimate goal by Sergio Agüero, of City, for an alleged offside that did not exist. The decision, which clearly harmed City, unleashed the fury of their fans and generated a debate about the quality of refereeing in English football.

Another controversial episode occurred in 2018, when referee Michael Oliver awarded a penalty to United after a foul by Nicolás Otamendi on Marcus Rashford. The decision, which was heavily protested by City players and fans, allowed United to tie the game and earn a valuable point.

Fans in fury: When passion turns into violence

The passion that surrounds the Manchester Derby is not always manifested peacefully. On several occasions, clashes between fans of both teams have resulted in violent incidents, both inside and outside the stadium. One of the most serious episodes occurred in 2008, when a group of United fans attacked a bus carrying City players and coaching staff, causing several injuries.

These incidents, which tarnish the image of English football, have led the authorities to take stricter security measures in the Manchester Derbies, with the aim of preventing violence from once again taking center stage.

The top 10 of controversy: Hot moments of the Derby

Below, we present a list with some of the most controversial moments in the history of the Manchester Derby:

1. Roy Keane's tackle on Alf-Inge Haaland (2002): A brutal action that ignited the rivalry between both teams.
2. The brawl between City and United players (2011): An incident that reflected the tension that was felt on the field.
3. The disallowed goal to Sergio Agüero (2012): A refereeing decision that clearly harmed City.
4. The penalty in favor of United (2018): A controversial play that generated controversy.
5. The attack on City's bus (2008): A violent incident that tarnished the image of the derby.
6. The riots in the stands (various years): Clashes between fans that have left injured and arrested.
7. The controversial statements of coaches and players (various years): Verbal incidents that have fueled the rivalry.
8. The provocative celebrations (various years): Gestures and attitudes that have generated the wrath of rival fans.
9. The offensive chants (various years): Insults and threats that have tarnished sportsmanship.
10. The offensive banners (various years): Denigrating messages that have crossed the limits of respect.

The Manchester Derby is a match that awakens passions and generates emotions to the surface. The rivalry between United and City is one of the most intense in the world and has given rise to unforgettable moments, both for its footballing beauty and for its controversy. The incidents described in this note are just a sample of the passion and tension that surround this encounter, a classic that always gives something to talk about.

What you should know about the Manchester Derby!

1. Historical rivalry: The Manchester Derby is one of the oldest and most exciting in English football.
2. Controversial moments: The derby has been the scene of incidents that have marked its history.
3. Overflowing passion: The intensity of the match often leads players and fans to act to the limit.
4. Arbitral decisions: The performances of the referees have also been the subject of controversy.
5. An unforgettable classic: Despite the controversy, the Manchester Derby is a spectacle that no one wants to miss.