Man City vs Manchester United: We no longer find Old Trafford ‘scary’, says Pep Guardiola ahead of derby

City travel to United on Wednesday night for the 178th Manchester derby

Pep Guardiola believes that a trip to Old Trafford to play Manchester United is no longer “scary” for neighbours Manchester City.

City travel to United on Wednesday night for the 178th Manchester derby and need to win in order to keep their Premier League title defence on track.

Guardiola’s side will finish above leaders Liverpool and retain their crown if they win their remaining four matches.

City went 34 years without winning at Old Trafford between 1974 and 2008 but have emerged victorious in five of their last seven league visits.

“I don’t make theories about what happened in the past for what is going to happen in the future,” Guardiola said, when asked whether City no longer feared United.

“The reason why [City’s record has improved] is the fact this club in the last decade grew a lot and it is not scary to go there. Before it was maybe more difficult.

“The players Manchester City had in the last decade made this game a little bit more equal.”

United have lost six of their last eight games under Solskjaer, with Sunday’s 4-0 defeat at Everton being possibly the worst performance under the Norwegian to date.

Even so, Guardiola believes United will react to that disappointment and supported Solskjaer to turn things around at Old Trafford.

“I expect the best United tomorrow, I am sure. They are bright,” he said.

“Football players try to do their best and tomorrow it is going to happen. We prepare for their strong points and weak points.

Guardiola believes Manchester City no longer feel 'scared' by Old Trafford (Getty)

“Everybody needs time. Our world, our position, I am close to Solskjaer, I understand perfectly his position.

“We feel alone and that is why I understand completely his position. It happens to all the managers around the world. That is the reality. I understand him perfectly. I support him."