Ruben Amorim focused on Man Utd’s ‘bigger’ problems rather than Man City plight

Ruben Amorim is focused on his own problems rather than Manchester City’s as the Manchester United head coach looks to get the better of Pep Guardiola for the third time this season.

Sunday’s Old Trafford encounter is the most low-key derby in years as the Red Devils languish 13th in the standings and the previously all-conquering visitors are fighting for a Champions League spot rather than another championship crown.

Fifth-placed City had won an unprecedented four Premier League titles in a row until struggling for coherency and consistency this term, with the nadir being a rotten end to 2024.

Amorim inflicted two of City’s nine defeats during a 12-game period, with November’s stunning 4-1 Champions League win with Sporting followed by overseeing United’s 2-1 turnaround at the Etihad Stadium the following month.

Asked if City have recovered from that or if he still sees some of the same issues, the United boss said: “No, I’m more focused on our problems. I think we have bigger problems than Manchester City.

“They had that run in that moment, but they improved. They can play in different ways. It’s really hard to understand how and to think how they are going to face us.

“They have maybe the best coach in the world, they have top players, so it will be a difficult match but like I said I’m so focused on improving my team that I’m not worried about the improvements of Manchester City.

“Just try to understand how Manchester City is going to play so I can help my players be on top of their game.”

Sunday’s match is followed four days later by a key Europa League quarter-final first leg at Lyon for United, with the reverse fixture coming after next weekend’s trip to Newcastle.

The competition is United’s only route to