Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has talked about how impressed he is by Sheffield United, who achieved promotion to the Premier League at the end of last season, ahead of the clubs’ clash this week.
The Blades host defending champions City in the league on Tuesday night, three weeks after the teams last clashed, with United six points off of the Champions League qualification spots.
City emerged 2-0 winners that night but impressed Guardiola, who was full of praise for Chris Wilder’s side.
“I’m incredibly impressed by them,” Guardiola said. “When people say you can improve by watching others, this is the one.
“We suffered against them here. I admire them, honestly. How they play and what they’re doing.
“It’s a high percentage of players from League One and the Championship. I like it. This is the one you can improve from.”
Both City and United drew at the weekend, but the latter will have been markedly happier about sharing points than the Manchester club.
Wilder’s side came from behind late on to draw at Arsenal, while City blew a 2-1 lead at home against Crystal Palace in the 90th minute.
Second-placed City trail league leaders Liverpool - who defeated rivals Manchester United 2-0 on Sunday – by 16 points. Liverpool also have a game in hand.
