It was unclear whether Victor Nilsson Lindelöf would play in the derby.
But the Swedish national team captain was part of Manchester United's starting eleven.
Double paintings in the first half
However, it was a tough start for the Red Devils.
Joao Cancelo unleashed a swerving effort from the right that the visitors' keeper did well to tip wide.
United had a clear chance when Cristiano Ronaldo met a volley, but the City goalkeeper Ederson saved the ball.
A moment later Lindelöf was close to scoring United's second own goal when he steered Phil Foden's post towards his own goal, but David de Gea was on the scoresheet and saved the ball.
Just before the first half was over, United's second board came.
Cancelo was in front again, and shot the ball towards the far post.
It looked like the ball would go outside and when Luke Shaw lost his mark, Bernardo Silva was in front and managed to pick up the ball via De Gea's chest.
The home crowd was not impressed by the fancy moves of Old Trafford's's.
The text is updated