Pep Guardiola hails ‘exceptional’ Manchester United star Andre Onana ahead of Manchester derby
Pep Guardiola has hailed ‘exceptional’ Manchester United star Andre Onana ahead of Sunday’s showdown and has condemned vile chants from Manchester City fans aimed at the late Sir Bobby Charlton.
City released a statement on Thursday confirming they have banned two young fans for disgusting chants about Charlton after the death of the United legend.
The incident occurred during City’s 2-1 win over Brighton last week, which saw the club ‘apologise unreservedly’ for any offence caused.
Guardiola’s Response to Vile Chants
Guardiola was asked about the chants in his press conference on Friday ahead of the Manchester derby this weekend.
‘They don’t represent us,’ Guardiola said. ‘Alcohol makes bad, bad things in people. Mike Summerbee is going to Old Trafford to sign the book on behalf of Manchester City. We have huge respect for Manchester United. We prove it, losing and winning. There is a lot of respect, especially for an iconic figure like Sir Bobby Charlton.’
‘Tomorrow we will be part of that. We send our condolences to United and English football.’
Praise for Onana
Meanwhile, Guardiola has lauded United goalkeeper Onana after his recent heroics in the Champions League.
‘I remember we have a common friend who spoke very highly of him but personally I met him in Amsterdam,’ Guardiola added. ‘He’s an exceptional player and now at United. Everyone needs time [to adapt to the Premier League], not just the managers but players, goalkeepers. Everyone. Sometimes people are quicker but I have a high opinion of him as a goalkeeper.’
‘Hopefully we can beat him, but before the game I always expect the best of the players we are going to face. I prefer to see the strengths than the weakness they have. He saved a penalty in the last minute which helped them to stay in contention to qualify for the last 16. Mentally it’s a good boost for them.’
The Showdown
Sunday’s showdown between Manchester City and Manchester United will be an eagerly anticipated affair, with both sides looking to gain an edge in the race for the title.
City have been in fine form this season, with Guardiola’s side currently sitting atop the Premier League table. However, United have been impressive in recent weeks and will be looking to take advantage of any slip-ups from their rivals.
Onana will be key to United’s chances of getting a result against City, and Guardiola’s praise of the goalkeeper shows just how highly he is rated by his opponents.
It promises to be an exciting game, and with both sides looking to gain an advantage in the title race, it could be a crucial moment in deciding who will be crowned champions come May.