Timmy T Maranda
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola accepts that Manchester United is a difficult team to beat under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. But he will embrace the challenge.
City face their noisy neighbours in a top of the table clash that is dubbed the possible title decider on Super Sunday at Etihad stadium. Kick-off is at 18:30.
In the reverse fixture in December last year, City and United played to a goalless draw at Old Trafford. But in an earlier fixture, City overcame United 3-1 in the EFL Cup semi-final.
A win for in-form Manchester City will open the unassailable 17 point lead in the league table and extend their unbeaten run to 29 matches in all competitions, ahead of the final 10 games of the season.
The Citizens have recorded a 21-match winning streak. They also remain in the hunt for all three cup competitions, while the Red Devils are yet to be bested away from home in 21 games.
Pep Guardiola said he was impressed by Manchester United in their match against Chelsea last Thursday night and he believes they are good travellers.
“I always prepare to beat the opponents. We know the quality they have. I was very impressed with the way they played at Stamford Bridge. We accept the challenge and want to do a good game to try and win it,” Guardiola said on Manchester City’s social media.
He added: “I know how difficult United are. I have the feeling they are a better team every season. They haven’t lost away for more than one year. They always get good results here at Etihad Stadium. But we know the opportunity [and] we have to extend our advantage.”
The Spaniard has been shortlisted for February’s Premier League manager of the month. The City boss completed another perfect month, winning all six Premier League games, scoring 15 goals and conceding just three.
Picture source: @manchestercity
