Manchester City's £125m deadline-day signing Enzo Fernández justified manager Enzo Maresca's faith in him with a commanding, tireless display in the derby win at Old Trafford, particularly after City were reduced to 10 men by Phil Foden's first-half red card. The Argentinian, reunited with Maresca after their time together at Chelsea, had faced scepticism over his fee and off-field reputation following a fractious World Cup final defeat to Spain, but his performance against United demonstrated the physical and tactical qualities that persuaded City to sign him.

With Rayan Cherki shifted wide following Foden's dismissal, Fernández effectively covered the roles of two midfielders, operating as a No 8 while also providing support for Erling Haaland further forward. According to Opta data, he covered more than 10.25km before being substituted in the 82nd minute, completed ten sprints (twice as many as any other central midfielder), won the most duels of any player on the pitch, and made the most interceptions in midfield, helping City restrict United's ability to build attacks through the centre despite the hosts enjoying more possession.