Bruno Fernandes has been accused of cheating by former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor after the Manchester United captain’s involvement in the controversial incident that saw Manchester City’s Phil Foden sent off in the derby.
Foden was dismissed in the 23rd minute for kicking out at Fernandes following a clash between the pair. City nevertheless secured a 1-0 victory through Erling Haaland’s second-half goal.
Fernandes criticised over Manchester derby red card
Speaking on talkSPORT, Agbonlahor said Fernandes had exaggerated the incident and played a significant part in Foden’s dismissal. He also described the result as a form of “karma” for the United captain.
“At the end of the day, Bruno Fernandes is a cheat,” Agbonlahor said.
He added: “He’s an outstanding player, but he’s a cheat. You’ve kicked Foden twice on the floor, which should have been a red card to you. Then Foden’s lashed out a tiny little bit and you’re rolling around when you’re not hurt. A proper referee goes over and says, ‘You two, cut it out’. A yellow each, play on. It’s never a red card.”
The decision divided opinion, with footage showing Foden retaliating after the confrontation. Fernandes’ actions before the kick were also open to interpretation, while Agbonlahor’s comments amount to an allegation rather than an established finding.
Foden’s dismissal left City with 10 men for more than an hour, but United were unable to take advantage. Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo both struck the woodwork before Haaland’s goal settled the match.
The controversy deepened after refereeing body Pro Ref admitted that VAR had made an error by allowing the winning goal to stand. United’s failure to score against 10 men ensured that scrutiny of Fernandes’ conduct was accompanied by criticism of their performance in the defeat.
