Sport · Singapore Bureau
Maresca wants focus on City's display, not VAR controversy
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has urged observers to look beyond the VAR decision that proved decisive in his side's 1-0 derby victory over Manchester United, arguing that the quality of City's performance while playing with 10 men deserves greater recognition.
LSN Singapore ·
Maresca spoke after City's narrow win at Old Trafford on Sunday, which was secured by a goal from striker Erling Haaland that came under scrutiny following a VAR review. The decision to award the goal sparked considerable debate among analysts and fans, yet the City manager insisted the broader context of the match should not be lost.
Playing for much of the second half with a numerical disadvantage proved no obstacle to City's chances, with the team demonstrating resilience and tactical discipline throughout the encounter. Maresca highlighted this aspect of the performance as evidence of his squad's quality and professionalism during a tightly contested fixture.
The manager's comments reflect an attempt to steer the narrative away from the contentious VAR decision and towards the substance of City's display. In doing so, Maresca acknowledged the legitimate debate surrounding the goal while emphasizing that the team's ability to control the game remained the more significant story of the afternoon.