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Manchester United boss Mourinho reveals which player 'broke' the game plan for Manchester derby


Jose Mourinho has revealed why Manchester United’s game plan fell apart against fierce rivals Manchester City.

David Silva and Sergio Aguero handed the hosts a two-goal buffer before Anthony Martial’s second-half penalty gave the visitors hope.

But the game was killed off by Ilkay Gundogan as Pep Guardiola’s men emerged 3-1 winners at the Etihad.

And Mourinho, never shy of a word or ten, has claimed that United were left in the lurch by being forced to start Marouane Fellaini.

The Belgium international replaced £89m midfielder Paul Pogba, who was injured before the match.

AS IT HAPPENED: Manchester City v Manchester United

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Manchester City’s Aymeric Laporte Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff.
Manchester City’s Aymeric Laporte Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff.

“Of course, we missed him [Pogba],” said the Portuguese.

“One of the things that broke our plan a lot was the fact Fellaini had to start the game, because Fellaini is not in conditions to play 90 minutes.

“He was phenomenal in his effort but he was not in the condition to do it. And normally, I bring Fellaini to this game in the latest part of the game.

“Imagine this game with Fellaini coming on at 2-1 fresh with 25 minutes to go.

“That’s an important thing for us.”