Manchester City underlined the vast gulf in quality between themselves and Manchester United on Sunday.
Old Trafford paid tribute to late United great Bobby Charlton ahead of kick-off, with supporters unfurling a banner that read: “The finest English footballer the world has ever seen”.
But memories of past glories failed to translate onto the pitch, with the home team thoroughly outplayed by the champions, who did not have to get out of second gear in their 3-0 win.
Champions City made most of the early running and were awarded a penalty after VAR spotted a foul on Rodri by Rasmus Hojlund as the ball was crossed into the area from a free-kick.
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It was the first spot-kick Manchester City have been awarded at Old Trafford since 1992.
Erling Haaland stepped up to tuck home, his 12th goal of the season in all competitions.
City goalkeeper Ederson saved a Scott McTominay pile-driver before Andre Onana produced heroics at the other end when Haaland appeared certain to head home.
But the Norway forward made no mistake just after the break, thumping home a header from Bernardo Silva’s cross.
Phil Foden made it 3-0 with 10 minutes remaining after he was set up by Haaland.
Guardiola said it was one of City’s best performances of the campaign.
“I had a feeling that at this part of the season, we are playing better than at this point last season,” he told the BBC.
“When we come here to Old Trafford we perform well – last season we lost, this season we won, so good.”
United manager Erik ten Hag, whose team have now lost five of their opening 10 league games, refused to comment on the penalty award.
“It hurts a lot,” he said. “I think especially because the first half, the game plan went perfectly. It is only the penalty that changes the game.”
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