Former Manchester United forward Robin van Persie believes Manchester City are "scared" of Liverpool.
The two teams went toe-to-toe in one of the most thrilling and intense Premier League title races ever seen last season, with Pep Guardiola's side edging out Jurgen Klopp's men by a single point.
But the two became arch-rivals the season before, when the Reds knocked City of the Champions League, claiming a 5-1 aggregate victory at the quarter-final stage.
And Van Persie, speaking on BT Sport, believes the Reds are the only side City are scared of facing.
"The way they play, the way they go in behind, the way they hurt opponents with their fast attackers," the former Arsenal captain said.
"The midfield is always there, it’s very strong.
“City, I think, are scared of Liverpool. City, in a way, are scared of nobody except Liverpool.”
Van Persie was speaking during analysis of Man City's Community Shield shootout win over Liverpool today.
The Dutchman, who confirmed his retirement from football in May, claimed both sides are the two top teams in Europe at the minute.
He said: "I think what we learnt today is that these two teams, Liverpool and Manchester City, are the best teams.
"Not only today and not only in England, in my opinion, (they) are the best two based on the past couple of years in Europe.
“The way they play. The philosophy of the coaches, they have different styles, but they are the best two teams in Europe , in my opinion."
