Manchester City’s Champions League qualification hopes hang in the balance after a disappointing 0-0 draw in the Manchester derby against United on Sunday.
United had the better of a game with limited chances but fell short of securing their first league double over City since the 2019/20 season.
The point leaves City in fifth place in the Premier League, which could still be enough to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League. However, Pep Guardiola’s side is just two points ahead of Newcastle, who have two games in hand on City.
Meanwhile, the draw lifts United to 13th place.
For the first time in Premier League history, it’s possible neither City nor United will finish in the top four, with that record now under serious threat.
The match, lacking quality, intensity, or fight, was a fitting reflection of the disappointing seasons both Manchester clubs have had.
After four consecutive league titles, City’s form has drastically declined, putting them at risk of missing the top four for the first time since the 2009/10 season. United’s only chance at Champions League qualification now lies in winning the Europa League, as they are on course for their worst-ever Premier League finish.
Despite showing moments of improvement, United’s problems in front of goal were evident, as they failed to score in their 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.
Kevin De Bruyne’s performance also highlighted his struggles, as he continues to fall short of the player Guardiola once hailed as a potential Premier League legend.
While City dominated possession, United posed more of a threat on the counter-attack during a lackluster first half. Alejandro Garnacho, Patrick Dorgu, and Manuel Ugarte all missed half-chances to break the deadlock.
The best chance of the game came just after halftime when Phil Foden, one-on-one with Andre Onana, fluffed his opportunity.
The game improved slightly after the break, with Omar Marmoush forcing a save from Onana with a powerful shot from a corner.
Substitutes Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount added more attacking intent for United in the final 20 minutes. Zirkzee’s shot was saved by Ederson, and Mount’s follow-up effort was blocked by Rico Lewis.
At full-time, Guardiola and Ruben Amorim shared a warm embrace, but their smiles masked the frustration both managers likely felt with their teams’ performances after a lackluster campaign.
