The 199th Manchester derby is set to take place at Old Trafford on Sunday, marking 135 years since the fierce rivalry between Manchester United and Manchester City first began in 1891. With both clubs aiming to etch another memorable chapter into their storied history, sports writers have revisited some of the most iconic moments from past encounters.
One of the biggest shocks remembered is City's dominant 5-1 victory at Maine Road on September 23, 1989. The scale of the defeat left a lasting impression, with City's left-back Andy Hinchcliffe scoring the fifth goal from a David White cross, described as the best derby goal ever witnessed by one writer.
Another unforgettable moment from a high-scoring affair was Michael Owen's dramatic late winner in the 4-3 victory for Manchester United in 2009. The match itself was a seven-goal thriller, with Wayne Rooney opening the scoring early on. Carlos Tevez was instrumental in an equalizer, and Craig Bellamy's brace put City ahead before Rio Ferdinand's own goal. The game was eventually decided in the sixth minute of added time when Ryan Giggs provided an assist for Owen, who finished with precision. This match occurred during the weekend of one writer's 40th birthday, adding a personal element to the thrilling encounter.
Further back in 2011, Wayne Rooney's spectacular bicycle kick secured a victory for United. The goal, despite coming off his shin, was seen as a fitting end to a period of uncertainty surrounding Rooney's future, including speculation about a potential move to City.
Mario Balotelli's 'Why Always Me?' T-shirt celebration following his goal in City's 6-1 demolition of United at Old Trafford in 2011 also remains a vivid memory, representing his unpredictable presence in the league.
The infamous 'milkgate' incident of December 2017, where a pint of milk was thrown in the tunnel after a derby melee, is recalled as a bizarre and unresolved moment involving Jose Mourinho.
More recent additions to the derby's highlight reel include Kobbie Mainoo's goal in the 2024 FA Cup final, which capped a vibrant performance by United. Vincent Kompany's headed winner in 2012 is also cited as a pivotal moment, one that effectively swung the title race towards City and arguably paved the way for their subsequent era of dominance.
