Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola emphasizes the importance of focusing on tactics over emotions in the upcoming Premier League derby against Manchester United on Sunday.
Despite City’s 3-0 victory at Old Trafford in October, Guardiola acknowledges the need for a strategic approach.
City currently holds a commanding 15-point lead over United, with both teams exhibiting good form – City unbeaten in 18 matches and United having suffered only one loss in 2024.
This derby marks the first since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s co-ownership of United, with his ambition to dethrone City from their dominant position within three years.
Guardiola’s side, having secured five of the last six Premier League titles, faces the challenge without winger Jack Grealish, who sustained a groin injury in Tuesday’s FA Cup triumph against Luton.
While Josko Gvardiol is nearing a return from an ankle problem, his availability for this crucial clash remains uncertain.
On the United front, manager Erik ten Hag expresses confidence in their form, unity, and a positive spirit, emphasizing the need for a well-crafted game plan.
Despite injuries, key players Bruno Fernandes and Raphael Varane are expected to be available after completing Wednesday’s victory at Nottingham Forest.
As the anticipation builds for this high-stakes derby, both teams are gearing up for a clash that could have implications on the title race and further intensify the historic rivalry between the Manchester clubs.