Haaland's Injury Scare Can't Slow City in Manchester Derby
17 January 2026
Haaland's Injury Scare in the City-United Derby
The Norwegian striker Erling Haaland caused concern for Manchester City as the first half of the Manchester derby at Old Trafford ended with him lying on the pitch after a clash with English defender Harry Maguire. The match, part of the Premier League's 22nd round, unfolded on Saturday evening.
Medical staff rushed to his side. He stood up briefly but appeared unable to walk unaided, prompting the tunnel trip for further assessment.
After treatment, Haaland returned to the field for the second half and completed the game, showing remarkable resolve despite the scare.
The clash also marked United's first appearance under manager Michael Carrick, who took charge after Darren Fletcher's interim spell following Ruben Amorim's appointment.
Derby Drama, United's New Chapter
City's clash with United on home soil kept the focus on Haaland, but the report centers on the medical halt and the managerial context more than on the final score. Haaland’s return to action underscored City’s willingness to push through adversity in a heated fixture.
In the broader context, this game was United’s first under Carrick, the former midfielder stepping in after Fletcher’s interim period and amid Amorim’s linked appointment, a reminder that derby nights carry both on-pitch battles and management whispers.
Punchline 1: If injuries were transfers, Haaland would be the most in-demand loan. Punchline 2: In this derby, even the medical bag had more minutes than the scoreline.
