British media reports indicate that a heated discussion took place in the players' tunnel between Manchester City player Jack Grealish and Manchester United defender Harry Maguire after the match on Saturday, where the "Red Devils" triumphed 2-1 at Old Trafford. The match was contentious regarding the legitimacy of Manchester United's first goal scored by Bruno Fernandes, as Marcus Rashford appeared to be in an offside position, seemingly interfering in the play.
The "Daily Mail" reported that Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji, along with Kyle Walker and Grealish, complained to the referee after the game, questioning why the referee did not consult the VAR technology. Dutch journalist Jan Age Fjortoft quoted Grealish, who scored City's only goal in the match, stating that he was "extremely frustrated" but not "aggressive" while expressing his anger in the tunnel after the match in front of Maguire.
Fjortoft also mentioned that a discussion took place between Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola and Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag.
Akanji's Statements
City defender Akanji insisted that the goal should not have been awarded, stating after the match: "Rashford chased the ball for 30 meters from an offside position. I think he was two or three meters in front of me." He observed Rashford pursuing the ball until the last moment, adding, "For me, it's a clear interference."
Akanji targeted the match officials, questioning their handling of the game, and explained, "I spoke to the assistant referee who asked me, 'Did Rashford touch the ball?' I said, 'No, but he chased it for a long time and tried to take advantage until the last moment.' For me, in this situation, the referee needs to look at it at least."
