City go into the game on a run of one defeat in 15 matches in all competitions, including four wins and a draw in our last five.
And with qualification for the last-16 of the Champions League secure, we can now focus on improving our position in the Premier League.
Guardiola says the adversity we’ve faced this season - lack of pre-season and the doffoculties created by COVID-19 - has seen his players and staff pull together superbly.
“[We have momentum but] in football you have to show again,” he said.
“But the mood and environment with the backroom staff and players is exceptional this season.
“It always was but especially this season with Covid, no preparation, every player has responded so well.
“There are a lot of games to play. We are in the beginning of the season but it’s important to win and beat a big rival.
“Now is time to focus on the Premier League.”
Watch the first part of Pep Guardiola‘s pre-Derby press conference via the video above and join us for the rest at 10.30pm this evening.
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We will have full coverage of the Manchester Derby right here on ManCity.com.
Our Matchday Centre will get under way at 3.30pm, with text updates throughout the day meaning you won’t miss a beat.
Our We’re Not Really Here live matchday show starts at 4.30pm, with Shaun Goater and Gareth Barry and Michael Brown joining us in the studio.
And CITY+ subscribers can enjoy a full 90-minute replay from midnight. Enjoy your first month of CITY+ free of charge. After that, CITY+ costs £1.99 a month.
