Pep Guardiola anticipates a strong performance from Manchester United in the upcoming derby, despite Manchester City being the clear favorites to secure a victory on Sunday and maintain their dominance over their rivals.

City has emerged victorious in five out of the last six meetings against United across various competitions, holding a considerable 15-point lead in the Premier League standings.

Guardiola, aiming for a second consecutive treble of trophies, emphasized that he won’t underestimate United. “I expect the best from United, but I refrain from discussing their actions out of deep respect for my opponents,” Guardiola mentioned on Friday. He clarified that his words shouldn’t be misinterpreted.

Expressing respect for United’s institution, players, and coach Erik ten Hag, Guardiola acknowledged United’s ability to create special moments in set pieces, transitions, and open play, emphasizing their scoring prowess.

Despite United’s less-than-impressive season, Guardiola emphasized their continued threat, highlighting their capability to win games when playing well and without stress. He noted that even with a recent home loss to Fulham, United has only suffered one defeat this year.

When asked about the shift in power dynamics in Manchester over the last decade, Guardiola denied the notion, stating that dominance changes over time. Reflecting on historical patterns, he cited Liverpool’s dominance in the 1980s and United’s in the 1990s, highlighting the cyclic nature of football. Guardiola expressed a commitment to extending City’s success through consistent efforts while acknowledging that no single club can dominate indefinitely.