Ruben Amorim has focused on his own challenges rather than those of Manchester City as the Manchester United manager seeks a third win this season under Pep Guardiola.
Sunday's encounter at Old Trafford is set to be one of the most low-key derbies in recent years, with the Red Devils 13th in the table and the previously unbeaten rivals battling for a Champions League place rather than another title.
Fifth-placed City have won four successive Premier League titles, an unprecedented achievement, but they have struggled with consistency this season, with the low point being a disastrous 2024 final.
Amorim have inflicted two of City's nine defeats in 12 matches, securing an impressive 4-1 Champions League win over Sporting in November and leading United to a 2-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium the following month.
Asked if City had recovered from the defeat or were still experiencing some of the same difficulties, the United manager replied: “No, I'm more focused on our own challenges. I think we have bigger challenges than Manchester City.”
“They had that period, but they have improved. They can perform in different ways. It is really difficult to see how they will play against us.
“They have probably the best manager in the world and the best players, so it will be a tough game, but as I said, I am so focused on improving my team that I don't care about Manchester City's progress.”
“I'm just trying to understand how Manchester City are going to operate so I can help my players be at their best.”
Sunday's match precedes United's vital Europa League quarter-final first leg at Lyon, with the return leg coming after a trip to Newcastle next weekend.
The competition is United's only route to silverware and European competition, and Amorim said his choice of St James' Park instead of this Sunday could be down to the importance of achieving it
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
