Former Liverpool and Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has identified the weakness in Manchester City's defence that was exploited at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
Pep Guardiola's side lost 2-1 to Manchester United, with Marcus Rashford opening the scoring in the first half from the penalty spot and Anthony Martial doubling United's lead six minutes later.
The visitors had a number of chances to extend their lead throughout the match and their victory leaves City 's hopes of a third consecutive Premier League title in tatters.
Now 14 points behind leaders Liverpool, City face a stern test to mount a title challenge from here and Benitez has identified the flaws in their pressing game.
"Manchester United were very compact and they knew they were a threat on the counter-attack. City were trying to press but they were too long, they were going late, and with the pace that United have, they found the space and they could run," he told Sky Sports.
"Their midfield is not compact. I think they were a little bit scared of the pace. United did really well but it was just the timing, when you have to press and where. In this case, you have to give praise to United because they were precise, they were quick."
