'They have one of the best in history' - Pep wary of Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Manchester derby
Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola has opened up on the upcoming Manchester derby against United in the Premier League on Saturday, 6 November - revealing that his side will have to study how to stop "one of the best players in history" in Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo has enjoyed a brilliant return to Old Trafford so far this season, scoring nine goals in 11 appearances in all competitions, including both in the 2-2 draw with Atalanta in the Champions League on Tuesday, and Guardiola has warned his players about the challenge they face on Saturday.
"I didn't see the United match [against Atalanta], I'm going to analyse and to see what they are so I know how good they are. We saw it last season. They have one of the best players in history, a guy who can be a scoring machine," Guardiola said following City's 4-1 win over Club Brugge.
PEP GUARDIOLA:
— The CR7 Timeline. (@TimelineCR7) November 3, 2021
“Manchester United have one of the best players [Cristiano Ronaldo] of history, a guy who can be a scoring machine.” pic.twitter.com/ECPdrdkg1v
The Spaniards side have just 48 hours to prepare his players to face United which could hinder their preparations, considering that their opponents will have an extra day off as their Champions League clash was on Tuesday.
The Cityzens who suffered a shock loss to Crystal Palace last week are currently placed third in the league table with 20 points from 10 games, five behind table toppers, Chelsea.