EFL Cup: Gundogan Expects ‘ Very Difficult’ Manchester Derby
Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is anticipating a feisty contest in Wednesday’s EFL Cup fourth-round tie against Manchester United as both sides aim to bounce back from recent setbacks.
Pep Guardiola’s side have not won a game in five matches across all competitions, while their city neighbours suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat at Chelsea on Sunday.
“Their defeat could be a factor. But it is the same for us because we’ve not won for five games,” Gundogan told his club’s official website.
“Of course, we want to win this game and because we both are looking to get the win that will get us back on track it could be a very lively game.
“Plus we are the holders of this cup and want to retain the trophy if we can. But it will be a very difficult tie for us.”
Gundogan relishes United clash
The midfielder did not feature in the 2-1 Premier League win at Old Trafford in September due to injury. And now he is looking forward to this first clash with United.
“I think it will be a great game,” he said.
“It’s a cup game – that makes it special anyway – but the fact it is United and everything that goes with a Manchester derby for the fans and the city gives it that extra edge.
“It has a huge meaning for Manchester, England and maybe the whole world will be watching. We will look to repeat the victory and the performance from earlier this season.”
