Phil Foden sent a touching tribute to Ricky Hatton after Manchester City's 3-0 derby triumph, dedicating the victory to the boxer.
The 46-year-old former world champion passed away on Sunday morning, casting a sombre atmosphere over the Etihad Stadium.
"100 per cent. I had extra motivation going into the game, it was for him and his family," Foden told Sky Sports after the match. "It was all for him and we are delighted with the result."
The England international marked the emotional occasion by scoring the opening goal with a header after 18 minutes, helping City secure their sixth victory in nine league meetings against their rivals.
Phil Foden put Manchester City ahead with his first goal of the season
| REUTERSFoden also addressed his lack of form over the last 12 months after shining for Pep Guardiola's side in 2024, winning the PFA Player of the Year.
"There has been a lot of talk," the English international continued. "It's impossible [not to see it]. Everything I see at the moment is negative but that's the world we live.
Phil Foden sent a touching tribute to Ricky Hatton after Manchester City's 3-0 derby triumph
|SKY SPORTS
"When you come off winning Player of the Season, the standards are higher. I understand that.
"It's about reading those comments and reacting, to come back to my level."
Erling Haaland netted twice as Manchester City dominated their struggling neighbours at the Etihad Stadium.
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Erling Haaland grabbed another brace at the Etihad
| REUTERSThe Norwegian striker found the net in the 53rd and 68th minutes, displaying the clinical finishing that has brought him 90 goals in 101 Premier League appearances.
"Complete performance," Foden declared of his team-mate. "He did everything. Defending, attacking and the dirty work. A full shift from him."
Haaland, who picked up the man of the match award, testified for the atmosphere in the Etihad on the afternoon: "You could feel it from the fans, we needed this. You always want to win the derby but you could feel the extra today.
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"We have to keep going and we have to keep him [Foden] going, we need him so much. This is the Phil we need.
"We are going to help him as much as we can to make him as good as he was."
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Erling Haaland claimed Manchester City 'need' a firing Phil Foden
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Jeremy Doku also proved instrumental in City's attacking display, creating opportunities for both Foden's opener and Haaland's first goal.
The Belgian winger's pace and trickery repeatedly troubled United's defence throughout the match.
The comprehensive victory lifted Pep Guardiola's side to eighth place after ending their two-match losing run.
Meanwhile, Ruben Amorim's Manchester United dropped to 14th position, having managed just a single victory this season.