Manchester City’s aspirations for Champions League qualification remain uncertain following a goalless draw in a derby against Manchester United on Sunday.
Despite controlling possession, City struggled to break down United, who missed out on a chance to secure a league double over their rivals for the first time since 2019/20.
The result leaves City in fifth place, which, for now, should be enough to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League. However, they are only two points ahead of Newcastle, who have two games in hand, adding further pressure to their campaign.
United, with their point, move up to 13th in the Premier League. For both clubs, this could be the first time in Premier League history that neither finishes in the top four, a record that now appears at risk.
The match, lacking quality, intensity, and passion, highlighted the struggles both Manchester sides have endured this season. After securing a record four consecutive league titles, City now faces the very real threat of missing out on the top four for the first time since the 2009/10 season. Meanwhile, United’s only route to Champions League qualification now seems to be through winning the Europa League, as they face their worst Premier League finish.
United’s inconsistency was apparent this week, with a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday further emphasizing their issues in front of goal. Meanwhile, City’s star player, Kevin De Bruyne, started just days after announcing that this will be his final season at the club.
City dominated possession but failed to create clear chances, with United posing a greater threat on the counter. Alejandro Garnacho, Patrick Dorgu, and Manuel Ugarte all squandered opportunities to break the deadlock in the first half.
Phil Foden had the best chance of the game just after halftime but could not capitalize, missing an opportunity with only goalkeeper Andre Onana to beat.
The game showed slight signs of improvement after the break, with Omar Marmoush’s powerful shot from a corner forcing a save from Onana. The introduction of Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount in the final 20 minutes added more urgency to United’s attack, with Zirkzee seeing his shot saved by Ederson and Mount’s follow-up blocked by Rico Lewis.
While there were warm exchanges between Pep Guardiola and Ruben Amorim at full-time, the pleasantries masked the frustration both managers must feel regarding the underwhelming performances of their respective teams this season.
