Much has been said in the build up to this derby but talks have been rather respectful and we probably cannot talk about mind games. The confidence factor, however, is at a high level within both squads.
1) Nani sounding totally ready
“Every time we play a big game like this, we have a lot of motivation and the preparation is always different for derby games. All the players want to play in these games, especially me,” Nani told The Sun.
“My confidence for these games is high and I feel comfortable in this sort of games. I like the pressure these games bring and every year the games against City seem to get more important.”
Should bettors tip Nani to find the back of the net on Sunday?
2) Balotelli honoring the importance of the Manchester derby
“Maybe now, City v United is a better football match than Milan v Inter. If I was sat at home and could watch one of the two, I think I'd watch United v City.
“Barca v Real Madrid is the biggest for the history, but soon United v City will be the biggest derby in the world.”
That’s a bold prediction from Mario Balotelli. The young Italian has apparently fallen in love with the city of Manchester, finally…
3) Anders Lindegaard looking at the EPL title race in general
“Four games ago, I would have said the title was between City and United. But Chelsea seem to be going well now, so you can't say it is just about the two Manchester clubs. It is too early.
“I have to say City have looked very good this season. They have quality players in all positions and two for each one, just like us. There is no doubt it is going to be a tight race this year.”
Well, the league is yet to take a concrete shape. Anders Lindegaard’s thoughts are certainly wise.
4) Mario Balotelli again
This time, the controversial youngster was referring to the expected hostile treatment he may receive from Manchester United’s home supporters. Super Mario is trying to transform from zero to hero and he is working hard to achieve just that. English news source The Guardian quoted Balotelli as saying:
“They can say what they want. I won't say anything to them. I will be focused on the game. All that matters is the result, nothing else. After the game I might think about the supporters but not during it or before.”
5) Nigel de Jong bragging about City’s form
“Of course everyone believes we can go there and win. We're going there as No 1 and the aim is to stay No 1. [..] We don't have any point to prove. We've shown our quality throughout the season. We don't need a game against United to show how good we are. [..]
“You can't build a history of winning trophies over 25 years like United have done just in one year. There's more to come but we are building here step by step and that takes time.”
If Manchester City succumb to yet another loss to Manchester United, Nigel de Jong could hide behind his claim that United have the edge when it comes to history, anyways.
