Louis van Gaal has vowed his Manchester United side will improve after Sergio Aguero’s derby winner saw his side slip to tenth in the Premier League.
United are four points worse off than they were at this stage last season and not since Sir Alex Ferguson’s first season in charge have they made a worse start.
Defeat brought to an end United’s four game unbeaten run and the manager is demanding more despite his side’s resilient second-half display.
“We were so close in spite of playing with ten men. We had more chances [after the red card] than in the first half. We are close but not close enough,” Van Gaal told BBC Sport.
“We have 13 points out of ten matches and Chelsea have a lot more, as do Manchester City so we have a problem.
“We need to improve and prove that we are not close but better. We will improve, that I promise.”
The Dutchman was unhappy with centre-back Chris Smalling who saw red late in the first-half after picking up two easily avoidable bookings.
“In a derby you have to be careful. The second yellow card is a stupid yellow card,” Van Gaal told BBC Sport. “As a player you have to control your aggression.
“I didn’t see the first yellow but with the second, you know you already have a yellow, so have to handle it differently. I said that to the players.”
Aguero gave City the lead just after the hour with a smart finish from Gael Clichy’s left wing pass but ten-man United battled hard to stay in the game.
Record signing Angel Di Maria drew a fine save from Joe Hart while Marouane Fellaini couldn’t find the target with a free header from six yards out.
Despite United’s third defeat of the season, their 63-year-old manager was proud of the commitment shown by his side.
“When you see what we did with ten men you can be proud as a coach,” added the former Netherlands manager.
“I said to the boys their willpower and labour were unbelievable and they can be very proud.
“The fans know the boys are willing to give everything for the shirt of the club. But at the end of the game we have zero points. In this sport it is always the goals that count.”
Despite failing to score for just the second time this season Van Gaal will undoubtedly be more concerned about his defence.
United finished the game with a back four including winger Antonio Valencia, midfielder Michael Carrick and 19-year-old Paddy McNair.
Marcos Rojo is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after dislocating his shoulder in a challenge with Martin Demichelis early in the second half.
With Smalling also suspended, the Dutchman will be hoping Phil Jones is fit to face Crystal Palace next Saturday.
“So many defenders are injured and you have to play each week with another defence,” Van Gaal said.
“I have seen good performances from Carrick and McNair, but it’s a disaster for us.”
Main image courtesy of Sky Sports via YouTube, with thanks.
