Pep Guardiola named five Manchester United players when asked about the biggest challenge Manchester City will face in Sunday's derby.
The Blues boss was answering questions at a press conference ahead of the meeting between the top two in the Premier League.
The clash is also a meeting of a City side which is on an incredible run of 28 games unbeaten in all competitions, and 21 straight wins, against a United team which has equalled the Premier League record by going 21 away games unbeaten.
Guardiola said he has always respected United, but when quizzed about the biggest challenge that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side poses at the Etihad Stadium, Guardiola named five Reds stars.
"They are so strong in all departments," he said.
"Defensively, and Bruno Fernandes, the speed up front with (Daniel) James, (Marcus) Rashford, (Anthony) Martial, the experience of (Edinson) Cavani, a player I admire the most for what he's done with his career.
"It's Manchester United. It's a privilege to compete with them, to be in front of them. Sunday is no exception. It's our target to do what we've done lately."
