The Reds have a habit of performing better away than they do at Old Trafford when they’ve taken on City in recent years, winning on their last three visits to the Etihad.
It leaves City without a home win over United since November 2018, and Guardiola is expecting United to again prove a particularly tough opponent on home soil.
Asked if he is fearing United at their best, Pep said: “Absolutely. I see the weak points and the strengths - but if I see it as an easy game, I won’t sleep well.
“I have to see the best of them and think ‘wow’. Always I think of the best version of them, otherwise we will do a mistake.
“We saw in the FA Cup strong teams play Championship teams and they are out. You have to be prepared. Defender has to know the winger.
Asked what the best version of United actually is, the Catalan replied: “The version since Ralf Rangnick - it is not necessary to think of Ole.
“They didn’t lose many times. They can run more than normal, then it will be difficult.
“They are too good. Waiting for mistakes and if we are not in the right position, then after they are quicker.”
CITY V SPORTING: GET YOUR TICKETS
City face United at 16:30 (UK) on Sunday 6 March and we’ll have comprehensive coverage here on mancity.com and the official app.
Live updates begin in our Matchday Centre two hours before kick-off, whilst our Matchday Live show, with guests David James and Darius Vassell starts one hour before we get under way at the Etihad Stadium.
During the game you can listen to live audio commentary from Alistair Mann and Shaun Goater, whilst a match report and post-match reaction from players and Guardiola will be available shortly after the final whistle.
You can watch highlights for free from 20:15 (UK) and CITY+ subscribers can also enjoy a full-match replay from midnight after the game.
