Harry Maguire feels ‘statement’ derby comeback win will boost Man Utd’s belief

Harry Maguire felt Ruben Amorim’s new-look Manchester United made a statement with Sunday’s stunning derby turnaround at Manchester City.

The Portuguese’s first trip across the city will live long in the memory, with the match ending in a 2-1 comeback win just as Thursday’s Europa League trip to Viktoria Plzen did.

Josko Gvardiol’s header had City on course for a much-needed win until the 88th minute, when United captain Bruno Fernandes silenced the Etihad Stadium from the spot.

Amad Diallo won that penalty and then conjured up a memorable 90th-minute winner as Amorim’s first Manchester derby ended in his biggest result since succeeding Erik ten Hag last month.

“It’s been a difficult start to the season for us and not much for our fans to cheer about, so today’s for them,” defender Maguire said.

“It was a great performance in the end to come here and have 50-50 of the ball, have the same amount of shots as them.

“It’s not been like that in recent years, so it’s an improvement but still a long way to go.”

Asked how big the win could be in the early stages of Amorim’s reign, he said: “Winning football matches is really important. When you play for this club, it demands winning.

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“Obviously, we had back-to-back defeats in the Premier League, so to come here and to put a statement down is really important for our confidence and the belief of where we’re going and where Ruben’s going to take us.

“I’m sure it’s going to be a positive journey.”

United’s turnaround meant City’s wretched run stretched to eight defeats in 11 matches in all competitions.

Two of those losses have been overseen by Amorim, who led Sporting Lisbon to a stunning 4-1 Champions League victory in his