JAKARTA Pep Guardiola is worried that Manchester United will see a good record against a big team ahead of leading his Manchester City team to host their city rivals in the 2022/2023 Premier League.
City will host the Red Devils in the ninth week at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, October 2 evening WIB. MU comes with a record of four consecutive wins.
United started the season with two defeats, but were able to bounce back after that to collect 12 points. Two of the four they won when they met Liverpool and Arsenal at Old Trafford.
"They came up with a very good result against a tough team, winning Southampton was not easy, but especially Liverpool and Arsenal at home. There was good momentum for them," said Guardiola, confiscated by The Independent.
Guardiola's squad also faced this match with a perfect record. They have not been out of action in the seven matches that have been played so they are entitled to second place in the standings, only one point adrift of Arsenal in top place.
With a record that is both good, it will make the duel between the two teams in this city even more interesting. MU certainly needs victory in order to catch up with the top four, while The Citizens will try to stick to the Gunners.
Guardiola said this derby would be more than just a match for the home fans. For this reason, he hopes that the presence of supporters at the stadium can put pressure on the players so that the motivated players win.
"It is important for us to feel the pressure of them [supporters], and opponents, and get the best out of ourselves. We need it. Otherwise, fighting these opponents is difficult to win," he said.
So far City has always finished above United in the last six seasons since Guardiola arrived in Manchester. However, the derby record during that period was very balanced.
City won eight times in their 16 meetings in all competitions, while United six times. The other two games ended in a draw.
"We have to play perfect. They have quality in short spaces, in front of them have mobility and speed, with physical and mid-quality, very aggressive centre-backs, and good speed outside," said Guardiola.
City has been confirmed without John Stones due to a hamstring injury while on duty in the international break with England. However, centre-back Aymeric Laporte is fit and is likely to be able to appear to host MU.
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