On April 8th, 2013, Old Trafford played host to a Manchester Derby unlike any other. Not because of the scoreline, but because it would be Sir Alex Ferguson’s final clash with Manchester City before his retirement at the end of that season. A rivalry he had helped to elevate into one of the biggest fixtures in world football ended in defeat, but his legacy in this fixture tells a much bigger story.
The Match
On April 8th, 2013, City came to Old Trafford determined to spoil United’s title charge. James Milner opened the scoring with a low drive that deflected off Phil Jones, wrong-footing David de Gea. United equalised not long after when Vincent Kompany turned a cross into his own net, giving the home side hope.
But the decisive moment came late on. Substitute Sergio Agüero burst past three United defenders with a trademark run and smashed the ball into the roof of the net to seal a 2–1 victory for City.
Though United fell short on the night, they would go on to reclaim the Premier League title that season, ensuring Sir Alex signed off as a champion.
Ferguson’s Derby Record
Across 47 Manchester derbies as United manager, Ferguson’s numbers were emphatic:
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Games: 47
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Wins: 26
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Draws: 10
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Losses: 11
From the infamous 5–0 defeat in 1989, to Michael Owen’s stoppage-time winner in the 4–3 classic of 2009, Ferguson’s United gave fans countless moments to savour against their city rivals.
Legacy of the Rivalry
By the time of this final derby, Manchester City were no longer just the “noisy neighbours” Sir Alex once dismissed. They had become genuine challengers, spurred on by investment and ambition. Yet Ferguson’s ability to keep United on top, even in the face of City’s growing power, speaks volumes about his management.
That 2–1 loss in April 2013 may not have been the fairytale ending, but Ferguson’s overall record against City underlined his dominance in the fixture. More importantly, it was symbolic of the passing of an era, one in which Sir Alex defined not only Manchester United’s success, but also the shape of English football itself.