Pep Guardiola is wary of Manchester United’s impressive away record as they will be hoping to maintain it when they visit the Etihad to face his City side in Sunday’s derby.
United made it 14 away top-flight matches unbeaten following Wednesday’s goalless draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
They could see their impressive away run halted when they face a City team who are unbeaten in 28 games in all competitions.
And ahead of Sunday’s big game, Guardiola said his side would be looking to stretch their advantage at the top of the table.
“I know how difficult United are. I have the feeling they are a better team every season. They haven’t lost away for more than one year. They always get good results here at Etihad Stadium – but we know the opportunity we have to extend our advantage.
“ I always prepare (in order) to beat the opponents. We know the quality they have. I was very impressed with the way they played at Stamford Bridge. We accept the challenge and want to do a good game to try and win it.
“You can play with seven defenders and win and play with more strikers and be defensive. The (derby) game (in December) was not good, the analysis said it was boring. But we admit in that period we were not at our best. But the intention was to try and win the game.“
And on the return of Nathan Ake from injury, the Spaniard said:“Yes it’s good news for us, Nathan Ake is back. He made the training sessions and felt really good. Yeah everyone is fit. It is important for us and hopefully after the international break everyone comes back really well.“