The fierce rivalry between Manchester United FC and Manchester City FC has traditionally played out on the pitch, but recent developments suggest the battle has extended into mind games off it as well.
As the 2025/26 season approaches its decisive stretch, City manager Pep Guardiola has reportedly expressed private doubts about United’s ability to secure a top-four finish and qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
United currently occupy fourth place with 48 points, having staged an impressive turnaround under interim boss Michael Carrick.
Their resurgence has injected fresh belief into their campaign at a critical juncture. However, Guardiola is said to remain skeptical about their staying power.
Sources suggest he questions whether United possess the squad depth and emotional resilience required to handle the mounting pressure of a tight race that also involves Aston Villa FC and Chelsea FC.
According to reports circulating among insiders, Guardiola has pinpointed several fixtures he believes could derail United’s ambitions. One of the first major hurdles is an away trip to Newcastle United FC at St James’ Park on March 4.
Newcastle’s intensity, pressing game, and passionate home support have troubled many elite sides this season.
Guardiola allegedly views that encounter as a potential banana skin, especially if fatigue begins to affect United’s consistency.
Another decisive moment could come on April 18 when United travel to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea. With only a narrow points gap separating the two sides, that clash may prove pivotal in shaping the race for fourth place.
Guardiola reportedly sees it as not just a tactical contest, but a psychological examination of United’s composure under pressure.
The visit of Liverpool FC to Old Trafford on May 2 adds another layer of complexity. A North-West Derby rarely follows a predictable script, and Liverpool’s swift counter-attacking style could test United’s defensive organization.
Guardiola is believed to think that even home advantage may not guarantee security in such a volatile fixture.
United’s home encounter with Aston Villa on March 15 also stands out. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, Villa have developed into a disciplined and well-structured unit capable of frustrating expansive opponents.
Finally, the campaign concludes with a potentially tense trip to Brighton & Hove Albion FC at the Amex Stadium on May 24 — a venue that has proven challenging for visiting teams. Guardiola reportedly believes that if United need a result on the final day, the psychological weight could be significant.
Despite the doubts, United’s recent 2-0 victory over Manchester City — highlighted by goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu — demonstrated renewed confidence. Yet the standings underline how fragile the situation remains, with minimal margin for error.
Whether Guardiola’s remarks are strategic mind games or a candid assessment is uncertain. What is clear is that United’s Champions League hopes will depend on their ability to navigate this demanding run-in and prove their credentials when it matters most.
