Man City boss Pep Guardiola says he was joking about ‘ridiculous’ plan for derby

Pep Guardiola admitted he was “kidding” when he said earlier this week that he had “ridiculous” tactical plans in mind for Saturday’s derby against Manchester United.

Manchester City can move within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal with a win at Old Trafford, where Guardiola has won six times in nine visits.

However, they come into the game after a surprise Carabao Cup exit to Southampton, where Guardiola’s side were out of sorts and beaten 2-0 on Wednesday.

Pep Guardiola admitted he was ‘joking’ about a ridiculous tactical plan for Saturday’s derby

And, speaking ahead of tomorrow’s clash, Guardiola came under pressure at his pre-match press conference about his alleged tactical plans.

However, the Spaniard replied: ‘It was a joke’, throwing cold water on the idea that he could do something crazy with City’s set-up.

Earlier in the week, Guardiola had said: “I would like to arrive against United with a fairly similar average minutes in the legs of the players because I have some ideas, some thoughts, ridiculous against United.”

Guardiola has been known for mixing up his tactics in big games during his time as City manager.

‘But I haven’t seen their last games yet. I have to see how they play at home and if they change something. I have yet to review it. That’s why I don’t have a clear line-up against United.

It wouldn’t have been a surprise to see Guardiola line up with an interesting setup, as the city boss is known for mixing things up in big games.

The City boss operated two midfielders as false nines during a dominating Carabao Cup win at United three years ago, which Kevin De Bruyne claimed he led the players to perfect in just 15 minutes in training.

Operated two midfielders as false nines during a Carabao Cup win over United in 2020

Guardiola also confirmed that John Stones would miss Saturday’s crucial game due to injury.

Similarly, Joao Cancelo started at right winger during away games at Liverpool and Chelsea this season.

Guardiola also explained that he has a starting XI in mind after the disappointing loss to Southampton in midweek.

He said yes. It’s not about [a missed opportunity at Southampton]. The national team is like a currency, there are players who train very badly and then play very well.

I know them, not about a single player. When 11 players don’t play well, something is missing.’

He also confirmed that John Stones would miss the derby through injury in a blow for City after the England defender returned from the World Cup in excellent form.