Erik ten Hag insists Manchester United would still have a "way to go" to return to the top level even if they win the FA Cup.
United are bidding to win the cup for a joint-record 13th time yet the prospect of denying City a Treble is arguably a greater incentive for their supporters.
City ended the Premier League season 14 points clear of United, who failed to mount a championship challenge for the 10th campaign running while City won their sixth title in the last nine years. Also read: Ten Hag gives update on Antony United have finished below City in every season since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.
Ferguson announced Pep Guardiola as the League Managers' Association Manager of the Year in midweek and admitted it is "sore" to recognise the City coach's greatness. "I think they do a very good job," Ten Hag said of City. "They play very good football, they deserve [the plaudits].