The boss still clearly recalls how United were 2-0 down on the day City could have won the Premier League title, but in the blink of an eye the Reds were 3-2 up and went on to win the game,
“We have been so consistent, especially in the last two seasons but it’s one game,” said Pep.
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“When we lost to Mourinho’s team in 2018, we were better and take a lot of points, but we lost the game in 10 minutes.
“That’s how derby games are, but hopefully we can play a good game.
“Especially in important games it’s more about focusing on how you beat your opponent.
“The best way to approach these games is to not be too stressed and do the best possible”
Asked whether he felt United players were right behind their manager, the Catalan pointed to the midweek win over Spurs as evidence that the Reds are very much united ahead of the derby.
“They beat Tottenham, one of the most physical teams in the league and they beat them.
“I don’t know (what they think), I didn’t call the United players and ask if they played for their manager.
“You play for yourself, not for me, for your career, your family.
“When a team fights in the way they fought in that game until the end it’s because they believe in what they are doing. Normally teams do what the manager says.
“Not easy to beat top, top teams but United have done that this season because they have a great mentality and belief.
“They are quick. I think in the Premier League 99% of teams have quick and fast players up front and they have James, Rashford, Martial who are top quality when they have space they are dangerous.
“In one game, anything can happen, so we are not here to judge the results and distance of past and future.
“It’s about the game tomorrow and we will try to beat them.”
