Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has shared his perspective on the upcoming Premier League showdown against Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday (March 3).
Both teams are entering the season’s second Manchester derby following divergent midweek victories to advance to the FA Cup quarterfinals. While City convincingly defeated Luton Town 6-2 at Kenilworth Road, United secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Nottingham Forest.
In their last five league matches, both City and United have each won four games. However, United suffered a 2-1 home loss to Fulham last weekend, whereas Guardiola’s squad emerged victorious with a 1-0 win at Bournemouth.
Looking ahead to the weekend clash at the Etihad, Guardiola expressed his profound respect for the upcoming opponents and their manager, Erik ten Hag.
“I always anticipate the best from our opponents,” Guardiola stated (as quoted by UtdPlug). “I refrain from making comments about them because I hold them in high regard. When I do speak, it often gets misconstrued. I have immense respect for their institution and for Erik (ten Hag).”
A victory for City would propel them to the top of the table, provided leaders Liverpool fail to secure a win at Nottingham Forest the day before. However, it’s important to acknowledge the divergent trajectories of City and United this season.
While Guardiola’s side is vying for consecutive continental trebles and a historic fourth consecutive Premier League title, United has encountered setbacks, suffering 15 defeats across competitions, which has complicated their aspirations for a top-four finish.
