Manchester City host neighbours Manchester United on Sunday in a derby that could have a big bearing on the Premier League title race – as well as the scramble to finish in the top four.
Pep Guardiola’s leaders are three points clear of nearest rivals Liverpool after the Reds’ 1-0 win against West Ham on Saturday.
When asked about the Manchester derby following that game at Anfield, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said “of course we are interested in it”.
If City lose on Sunday, Liverpool would have the chance to go top of the Premier League next weekend, when they play on Saturday and their rivals do not play until the Monday.
With 11 games left, United have 47 points – 19 fewer than City’s 66 – and are fourth in the table with a two-point cushion over fifth-placed West Ham, but Arsenal are a place further back and have three games in hand on United.
“We are playing against one of the best teams in the world,” said United’s interim boss Ralf Rangnick.
“In the end it is about controlling the game, not letting them play and have the ball without pressure. That is what they are always looking for.
“We are fully aware of how they want to play. It is about putting them under pressure and taking the ball off them. Some teams have done that over the past few weeks.”
Guardiola said City, who will be without defender Ruben Dias for up to six weeks, need to win “almost all the games” they have left to be champions.
“If we lose this game and win the Premier League, I would sign for that right now,” added the City boss.
“It’s not the cup where you lose and it’s over. We have to try to do what we can, but I don’t look at the table and them [United] being 19 points behind.
“I see them as a good side and that’s all.”
