Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola attended the pre-match press conference ahead of the game against Manchester United.
On Manchester United
We returned yesterday, and the players were all fantastic. I know how important this is for our fans; it's a very crucial match. I have great trust in the players.
On Injuries
In addition to Marmoush and Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri will also miss the game against Manchester United.
Everyone else seems to be in good shape. [John] Stones is also a doubt for the game. His situation isn't a major issue, but it's still uncertain whether he can play on Sunday.
Q: How about Marmoush's injury?
He has to undergo more tests, but I think it will take a few weeks. He will be ready either before or after the [next] international break.
On the Departures of Akanji, Ederson, and Gündogan
What we have achieved would be simply unimaginable without them. Ederson helped us pave a special path; he was the goalkeeper during the club's most glorious decade.
When I first arrived, Gündogan joined the team—he is a very intelligent player. And there's Manu [Akanji]; of course, the reasons for their departures are different. Personally, I wish all three of them all the best, because they have given us great help and contributed to making Manchester City what it is today.
Q: Why did Ederson leave?
Ederson had been thinking about it for two years: "Well, after winning the Champions League, the Premier League, and other league titles, I have done everything. For my family and also for a new experience." But that didn't happen back then; it happened this summer.
Q: Do you think Manchester City has entered a new era? Is it like going back to 2016?
I still had hair back then... (laughter erupted from the audience)
When you change 10 players within four or five months, everything needs to settle, adjust, and coordinate. We are developing, and there are many positive things, but we still need to be more stable. However, we will achieve that step by step.
Guardiola on Manchester City's Small Squad
I only have 16 players available now, not 26.
On Competition for the Goalkeeper Position
I won't ask Donnarumma to do things he is not comfortable with. We didn't sign Donnarumma to replicate what Ederson did; he has different strengths.
Our goalkeepers have great potential, and we must make the most of their traits. Donnarumma is tall and has a strong physique—he is imposing in major competitions. That's exactly what he showed in the Champions League last season. He will concede goals, but we will do our best to help him.
James Trafford is a Manchester City goalkeeper, and we can only pick one at a time. We have many games this season, so everyone will get their chance to contribute.
Q: Slot said Isak is the best striker. How do you think he compares to Haaland?
I think Haaland is slightly better... Isak is definitely a top player, which is obvious from the salary they pay him... But for me, I wouldn't trade Haaland for any other striker.
