Manchester City was by far the better team today (November 6), inflicting a 2-0 defeat on Manchester United at their home ground, Old Trafford.

It could have been another battering similar to 5-0 drubbing Liverpool subjected United to, if not for the brilliance of goalkeeper David De Gea.

Within the opening 10 minutes, Eric Bailly had scored an own goal, having been pressed and then having to defend a Joao Cancelo cross.

Cristiano Ronaldo has come under criticism for not tracking back and not sitting well in United’s attacking system, yet every week he is making assists, getting shots on target and banging in goals. Today he had two good chances with one being a fantastic volley.

Manchester United’s defence has been slow, ponderous and susceptible so far this season and it was found wanting again today with Bernardo Silva getting the better of Luke Shaw to  squeeze the ball past De Gea on the near post in the first half.

Come the second half, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team were completely outplayed with City looking comfortable. Sancho, Van de Beek and Rashford were thrown on but to no avail. Manchester United had the lowest touches a team has had in an opposing team’s area since data has been collated on player movement.

Pep Guardiola may not be playing with an out-and-out striker this season, but he seems to be functioning very well with Bernardo Silva, Gabriel Jesus, Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden combining like a well-oiled machine.

It’s 35 years on the day (1986) since Sir Alex Ferguson began his reign as Manchester United manager, going on to become the most successful manager in British football history. His prowess is certainly missed since his retirement in 2013.

Manchester City have now beaten Manchester United seven times out of their last 11 encounters. Manchester United, after 11 games played, are 11 points off the leaders. They next play Watford.