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Man United's defeat to Man City will hurt Red Devils' fans.

Losing a derby is never good. But losing at home, against their most likely title challengers, in English football's first Jose Mourinho vs Pep Guardiola showdown, is REALLY going to sting.

Unfortunately for United fans, this remarkable fact is only going to rub salt into the wound.

During their 2-1 defeat at home to City, United had just 39.9 percent of the ball. And remarkably, since the stat was first recorded in 2003, that is only the fourth time they have had less than 40 percent possession in a Premier League match at home.

(Image: REUTERS)

In other words, there have only been THREE Premier League matches at Old Trafford when they have had less of the ball.

Man United: Lowest possession at Old Trafford 38.5 % vs Swansea, Jan 2014 39.1 % vs Arsenal, May 2009 39.2 % vs Arsenal, Feb 2016 39.9 % VS MAN CITY, SEP 2016 40.2 % vs Arsenal, Nov 2013 Premier League only, since 2003/04

An incredible fact, which poses a few questions.

Is this proof of Guardiola once again getting the better of Mourinho in a tactical battle?

(Image: REUTERS)

Does it suggest Mourinho is simply not that bothered about his United team hogging the ball, as Louis van Gaal's team did?

Or is it just one of those things?

We'll leave you to draw your own conclusions, but one thing's for sure: Jose won't be terribly pleased with this particular stat…