Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has insisted he will not change his philosophy after his side suffered a comprehensive 3-0 defeat at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, leaving them languishing in 14th position in the Premier League table with just a single victory this campaign.
Phil Foden opened the scoring for Pep Guardiola's side in the 18th minute, heading home after Jeremy Doku's penetrating run down the right flank.
Erling Haaland then struck twice, first with a delicate chip in the 53rd minute before racing clear from the halfway line to seal the result on 68 minutes.
The loss represents United's latest disappointment in what has become an increasingly troubling season already.
Erling Haaland scored his seventh and eighth goals in Manchester derbies | REUTERSTheir solitary league triumph leaves them with only four points from their opening fixtures, while Manchester City's victory lifted them to eighth place with six points from four matches.
Ruben Amorim acknowledged the gravity of his situation following the defeat, admitting that just eight wins in 31 Premier League matches represents an unacceptable record for Manchester United.
"I accept, it is not a record you should have at Manchester United," the Portuguese manager stated to Sky Sports after the game. "I understand the frustration and I understand the decisions that come with that. I take the critics. That's it."
Manchester United have won just one game so far this season
|REUTERS
"I understand everything. It is normal. The result, I accept that. I don't see it that way, we are doing better than the results. The record says everything.
"My message to fans: I will do everything. Always thinking about what is best for the club. Until I'm here, I'll do my best. The rest is not my decision.
"I'm suffering more [than the fans]."
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Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim insisted he will not change his philosophy
|SKY SPORTS
Despite the mounting pressure and poor results, Amorim remained adamant that he would not abandon his tactical approach.
"I am not going to change my philosophy. I play my way and I am going to play my way," the manager declared defiantly after the derby defeat.
When questioned about comparisons with other teams, Amorim pointed United's opening day defeat against Arsenal.
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“I understand how football is and the results dictate the narrative. Did you think we were the better team against Arsenal? They had Odegaard, Rice and Zubimendi.
"I see it that way. I know that is hard for people. The fans do not want to hear these things. I don't lie to myself. I see the record and I accept any decision that comes with that."
The Portuguese coach maintained that his side's performances have been better than results suggest, though he acknowledged supporters might not want to hear such assessments.
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Ruben Amorim defends the system he is playing with Manchester United 👇 pic.twitter.com/hX0PuilIXa
His stance and commitment to his tactical system continues, with observers noting that his formation will remain unchanged regardless of the consequences for his position at Old Trafford.
The match saw Jeremy Doku, Foden and Haaland terrorise United's defence throughout. The Belgian winger instrumental in City's opening two goals.
His pace and trickery repeatedly exposed Luke Shaw and created numerous opportunities for the home side.
Manchester City's front three were formidable on the day
|REUTERS
Amorim identified defensive vulnerabilities as key factors in the defeat. "We could be more aggressive. The goals are avoidable," he explained.
The Norwegian striker might have scored more, striking the post from close range after rounding goalkeeper Altay Bayindir.
Gianluigi Donnarumma impressed on his City debut following his deadline day arrival from Paris Saint-Germain, making a crucial save from Bryan Mbeumo's volley.
City dominated proceedings and could have inflicted heavier damage, with Tijjani Reijnders spurning late opportunities as United's defensive structure completely unravelled.