What are the most controversial and explosive 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 been the scene of some of the most controversial and explosive moments in the history of English football. In every encounter, passion overflows on the field and in the stands, and the line that separates fair play from controversy becomes dangerously thin.

On this occasion, we will delve into the archives of the derby, unearthing the most scandalous and memorable episodes that have left an indelible scar in the memory of the fans. From fights in the tunnel to agonizing goals and provocative celebrations, we will review the moments that have turned the Manchester Derby into a unique spectacle, where controversy and emotion intertwine in every play.

The beginning of fury: Incidents in the first derby (1894)

The first moments of the derby already anticipated the intensity and controversy that would mark its history. In the inaugural match, played in 1894, the players did not mince words and starred in incidents that made it clear that the rivalry was going to be fierce.

From flying kicks to blatant shoves, the first derby was a true reflection of the overflowing passion that surrounded the clash between Manchester United and Manchester City. The referees had to work hard to maintain order on the field, but the tension was palpable and the incidents followed one after another.

Agüero's goal and Evra's "anti-city" celebration (2012)

Sergio Agüero's goal in the last minute of the match that gave Manchester City the Premier League title in 2012 is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic and emotional moments in the history of the derby. But the controversy did not end there.

Patrice Evra's celebration, a Manchester United player, was immediate. The Frenchman, visibly upset by the defeat, did not hesitate to express his frustration with gestures and words directed at the City fans, which caused a wave of boos and criticism from the sky-blue supporters.

Kompany's sending off and Ferguson's reaction (2012)

The referees have also had their share of protagonism in the Manchester Derbies, and their decisions have not always been exempt from controversy. A clear example is the sending off of Vincent Kompany in a key match in 2012.

The red card shown to the City defender unleashed the fury of Sir Alex Ferguson, who did not hesitate to question the referee's decision and accuse the referee of favoring Manchester United. The controversy spread for days, and Kompany's expulsion became a topic of debate in the sports media.

"Death to United!": The most offensive chants in the derbies

The passion and rivalry in the Manchester Derby often cross the line of respect and sportsmanship. Offensive and denigrating chants are an unfortunate constant in many of these encounters, and some of them are especially hurtful and condemnable.

From insults directed at players and coaches to chants that incite violence, intolerance and hatred have no place in football. It is essential that clubs, players and fans work together to eradicate this type of behavior and promote an environment of respect and coexistence in the stadiums.

Injuries and rough play: The dark side of the rivalry

The intensity and emotion that surround the Manchester Derby sometimes translate into rough play and unfortunate injuries. Throughout history, we have witnessed hard tackles, malicious kicks and violent clashes that have left players out of the field for weeks or even months.

The health and physical integrity of the players must always be the first priority, and it is the responsibility of the referees, the coaches and the players themselves to ensure that the derby is played within the limits of fair play.

Ferguson vs. Mancini: The war of words (2011-2013)

The benches have also been the scene of controversies and clashes in the Manchester Derby. The rivalry between Sir Alex Ferguson and Roberto Mancini, two coaches with strong personalities and very different styles, was especially tense during the Italian's time at Manchester City.

Crossed statements, veiled criticisms and public snubs were a constant in the matches between both teams. The tension moved from the field to the press room, and the derbies became an authentic war of strategies and egos.

Fair play? The most unsportsmanlike gestures in the history of the derby

In the Manchester Derby, as in any other football match, not everything goes. Unsportsmanlike gestures, simulations, aggressions and provocations have no place in sports.

Throughout history, we have witnessed regrettable episodes in which players from both teams have resorted to tricks and bad arts to gain an advantage or harm their rivals. These actions not only tarnish the image of the derby, but also transmit negative values to the fans, especially the youngest ones.

What you should know about the most controversial Manchester derbies!

• Goal Record: What is the derby with the most goals in history?
• Most Sent Off Player: Who is the player with the most red cards in the derbies?
• Coach with the Most Controversies: Which is the coach that has starred in the most controversies in the derbies?
• The Most Violent Derby: Which is the derby that registered the most violent incidents inside and outside the field?