Pep Guardiola: I expect “the best” from Manchester United and Erik ten Hag

Pep Guardiola has explained exactly what he expects from Manchester United and Erik ten Hag ahead of Sunday’s Manchester Derby.

Manchester United will be travelling across town to face Manchester City on Sunday afternoon as they gear up to face off in the Manchester Derby at the Etihad Stadium.

Earlier this season, City grabbed all three points at Old Trafford after Erling Haaland (2) and Phil Foden grabbed the goals in a 3-0 win – and Erik ten Hag will be looking to enact revenge.

Read More: Kobbie Mainoo chose Man United over Man City for reason Ole Gunnar Solskjær would love

City, of course, have been the best team in England across the last 10 years, and although they are certainly the favourites for the tie, manager Pep Guardiola is expecting United to take the fight to them this weekend.

“Always I expect the best of our opponents. The best performance of them is what I expect,” Guardiola said in his pre-match press conference when asked what he expects from United and Ten Hag.

“My players know what I expect. I don’t talk one word what the opponents do. I respect (them) too much. When I say comments, people say ‘Pep say this..’ Not my intention. Enormous respect for the institution and Erik (ten Hag).

“Big clubs, you have to win. Not easy for United, an incredible period with Sir Alex. It’s not easy. The big clubs used to have more patience, now there is a lot of pressure. I don’t know the reason why, I’m not there.”

Speaking further, Guardiola was asked if he is excited about the fixture.

“Were good with Jose (Mourinho), with Ole (Gunnar Solskjær), fighting, they were there. When I learn in my experience, more calm and relax. Don’t talk about many things. Tactic issue. Don’t talk about emotions. Relax and prepare as much as possible knowing the quality.

“They went to Luton and beat them, Wolves and beat them, Aston Villa to go and win a few weeks ago. They have the biggest quality. From one action they create something special with set pieces, transitions.

“Always have been demanding, when they play good, they will win. In 2024 they lost just one game, the consistency is there. Prepare tactically, what we have to do to get three points.”