Guardiola Urges Calm Approach Ahead of Manchester Derby
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has emphasized the importance of focusing on tactics rather than emotions ahead of the upcoming Premier League derby against Manchester United. City currently sit 15 points ahead of United in the league table, having won their previous encounter 3-0 in October. Both teams are in good form, with City unbeaten in their last 18 matches and United losing only once in 2024.
Guardiola, drawing from his experience in these high-pressure games, advises his players to remain calm and not get caught up in the emotions surrounding the derby. He believes that by focusing on tactics and executing their game plan, they can secure another victory against their rivals. Guardiola also acknowledges the historical dominance of different teams in different eras, but expresses his desire to extend City’s success for many years to come.
This derby holds particular significance as it is the first since Sir Jim Ratcliffe became co-owner of Manchester United. Ratcliffe has publicly stated his ambition to knock City “off their perch” within three years. However, Guardiola remains focused on his team’s performance rather than external factors and says he has no knowledge of United’s plans.
On the other hand, United manager Erik ten Hag emphasizes the unity and positive spirit within his team. He states that they are excited for the game and will prepare well to give their best performance. Ten Hag does not expect any injured players to return for the derby, but Bruno Fernandes and Raphael Varane are likely to be available despite minor fitness concerns.
Both teams have been in good form recently, with United suffering only one defeat in their last nine matches in 2024. They currently sit three points off fifth place, which could secure them a spot in next season’s Champions League. City, as usual, are flying high in the second half of the season, remaining unbeaten in their last 18 games across all competitions. They are just one point behind league leaders Liverpool as they aim for a second consecutive Treble.
Despite their impressive form, City’s defensive record has raised some concerns. They have conceded 26 Premier League goals this season, more than Liverpool and Arsenal. Former City defender Nedum Onuoha acknowledges this issue but points out that City still have a better defensive record than Arsenal, who consider themselves to be having a great offensive season. Onuoha believes that City’s attacking prowess gives defenders confidence and allows them to focus on winning games rather than simply keeping clean sheets.
Former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas raises questions about United’s game plan under Ten Hag compared to his predecessor Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Fabregas believes that under Solskjaer, United had a more defined plan that focused on defensive solidity and effective counter-attacks. He expresses concerns about United’s vulnerability to counter-attacks in recent matches and suggests that something is lacking in their current approach.
The predictions from pundits vary, with former United striker Dion Dublin suggesting that City should win comfortably due to their goal-scoring ability. However, he acknowledges that the pride of the city and the desire to leave a mark on the derby could change the dynamics of the game. Dublin believes that if United show up and give their all, the match could be closely contested.
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton, on the other hand, predicts a dominant 6-1 victory for City. He highlights the potential of City’s attacking players, particularly Kevin de Bruyne, who has been improving with each game. Sutton believes that if everything clicks for City, they could run away with a convincing win.
In terms of head-to-head statistics, City have won five of their last six encounters with United in all competitions. They are aiming for a sixth Premier League double against their rivals, which would be a record. City have also scored 10 goals in their last two home games against United and will be looking for a third consecutive home victory against them.
City’s impressive home record continues, as they are unbeaten in their last 35 home matches in all competitions. Guardiola’s side is just one goal away from scoring 600 goals under his management at the Etihad Stadium. Kevin de Bruyne is also closing in on his 100th goal for City in all competitions. Additionally, Rodri has been unbeaten in his last 58 appearances for City in league and cup matches.
United, meanwhile, have won six of their last seven games and have scored 18 goals in their last eight Premier League matches. They have lost 10 league games this season, two short of their highest total in a Premier League campaign. Bruno Fernandes is set to make his 150th Premier League appearance and will be looking to end his goal drought, having not scored in his last 14 top-flight games.
Overall, the Manchester derby promises to be an intense and closely contested match. Both teams are in good form and will be eager to secure a victory. City’s attacking prowess and home advantage may give them the edge, but United will be determined to prove themselves and make an impact in this highly anticipated clash.