Manchester United’s victory at the home of rivals Manchester City on Saturday was overshadowed by the deplorable behaviour of a small minority.
Video footage circulated on social media appeared to show a City supporter make monkey gestures towards United players in the second half of the match at the Etihad Stadium, while Fred was also struck by an object.
City released a statement after the match stating they are aware of the video in question and are “working with Greater Manchester Police in order to help them identify any individuals concerned”.
The City statement read: “Manchester City FC are aware of a video circulating on social media which appears to show a supporter making racial gestures during the second half of the match against Manchester United this evening.
“Officials from the club are working with Greater Manchester Police in order to help them identify any individuals concerned and assist with their enquiries.
“The club are also working with GMP regarding an instance of objects being thrown onto the field of play.
“The club operates a zero tolerance policy regarding discrimination of any kind, and anyone found guilty of racial abuse will be banned from the club for life.”
United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he had viewed the video of the fan allegedly abusing United players, and strongly condemned the behaviour.
“I’ve seen it on the video and the fella must be ashamed of himself,” he said.
“It is unacceptable and I hope he won’t be watching any football any more.”
Kick It Out said it has been “inundated” with reports of further alleged racist abuse from fans during the derby.
“We hope swift action is taken to identify the offenders,” the anti-racism body said in a statement.
As for the football, the bragging rights in Manchester went to United as they secured a 2-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium.
United scored both their goals inside the opening half hour.
The first came from the penalty spot after Bernardo Silva had barged Marcus Rashford to the ground.
Rashford stepped up and tucked away the spot-kick, sending goalkeeper Ederson the wrong way.
They were all over the Premier League champions after that and doubled their advantage when Anthony Martial beat Ederson at his near post with a left-footed effort.
Pep Guardiola’s side were a long way off their best in the game but pulled one back on 85 minutes when substitute Nicolas Otamendi headed in a corner from the right.
It was a frantic final few minutes but Man United held on to claim a deserved win.
