Michael Carrick's 'important' dressing room advice to Man Utd players revealed after huge Man City win

And United produced a sensational performance in front of their own supporters, with Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu scoring to give them all three points.

Martinez was a rock at the back for the fallen giants, with the Argentina international nullifying the threat of Erling Haaland.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, the centre-back opened up on Carrick and revealed what the 44-year-old said inside the dressing room before a ball was kicked.

"One important thing Michael Carrick said was: use the energy of the people. Today I think we did it. When we are together it is impossible to lose at home," he said.

"We know how we've suffered during the season but the only way is showing face and showing who we are.

"This was the best moment to do it. The team, not just the players on the pitch, but also on the bench, everyone was part of that."

Martinez has been ridiculed by Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt prior to the clash.

Speaking on their podcast, the United legends scoffed at the idea of the former Ajax star being able to deal with Haaland due to the huge size difference between the pair.

Martinez opted against speaking about his own individual performance, instead crediting his teammates for sticking together and producing a display that will dominate the headlines in the coming days.

"When you play against this kind of players, the team defends. Not just one or two players. Today we defended so well," he said.

"We were so compact all the time and then you have the confidence to go the duels. You feel today a different energy in the eyes of the players.

"Today the team won, that's the most important thing for me."

United should have gone ahead inside two minutes.

Harry Maguire saw a header crash against the crossbar, with the England international left to rue his luck.

United continued to dominate the majority of proceedings - yet found City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma constantly thwarting them.

The Italy international made some sensational saves, with Amad Diallo and Casemiro both denied by his giant frame.

In the 65th minute, however, United were able to finally break the deadlock.

Bryan Mbeumo, who was a shining light of Ruben Amorim's final few months in the dugout, finished off brilliantly after a pinpoint pass from Bruno Fernandes.

Then, just 11 minutes later, the Red Devils doubled their lead.

Dorgu, who has often been criticised, lashed home from class range after some brilliant work from substitute Matheus Cunha.

United are next in action against Arsenal next Sunday. Whether this proves a turning point, or another false dawn, remains to be seen.