The Reds go into the Manchester derby having won their last eight games in all competitions.
Erik ten Hag’s men know a win against City would narrow the gap between the Manchester rivals to just one point – while the Blues know a win could cut leaders Arsenal’s advantage to just two points ahead of their North London derby with Spurs.
Guardiola says he expects United to always be challenging near the top or thereabouts, so their position in the table is not unusual.
“It’s Manchester United,” said Guardiola.
“Always they were close. What happened in previous seasons is a Man United problem – I don’t know what happened, but I know they are there, four points behind (us).
“The position they are in is because it is the position United has to be.
“Is it a surprise to me? No. That they are where they are, as I say, it is no surprise to me.”
City beat United 6-3 earlier in the campaign – having led 6-1 at one stage – and Pep was asked that, after that sort of scoreline, if he still isn’t surprised the Reds have turned their season around?
He replied: “Absolutely not.”
Watch part one of the manager’s full press conference by playing the video above.
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