Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says Manchester United are finally getting back into shape

City won the Manchester derby 6-3 against United at the Etihad Stadium in early October

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says Manchester United are on their way back to being competitive at the top of the table.

United have not won the Premier League since 2013 and their last trophy came in 2017.

But they are seven-game unbeaten since a 6-3 loss to City and Guardiola says he sees positive changes under manager Erik ten Hag.

“I have a feeling United are coming back,” said Guardiola.

“United at last are coming back – I saw it on Thursday [the 3-0 win over Sheriff Tiraspol]and against Chelsea in the first half [of the 1-1 draw last weekend].

“I said I like what I’m seeing from United right now. There will be many teams like United fighting. That’s why you have to fight to qualify for the Champions League and fight for the title.”

Guardiola also says he sees Newcastle in the mix this season to challenge for the title and top four.

“Newcastle are already here,” added Guardiola, whose City side are aiming for a third consecutive Premier League title.

“I saw them against Tottenham. The centre-backs went man to man against Kane and Son with no problems.”

“We played against them in the third game of the season. Imagine if this team plays one game a week? We know how good Eddie the manager is.

“They have new players. They play bravely. They are a contender to be there.”

“Too tired for Insta”

Guardiola believes his team don’t get enough credit for seemingly simple achievements.

Last weekend against Brighton was one such example. City won 3-1with Erling Haaland scoring twice in a seemingly routine win over inferior opponents.

“I saw the players in the dressing room after Brighton, they were exhausted,” said Guardiola.

“They couldn’t even pick up the phone. Imagine how tired they were — they didn’t even have the energy to open Instagram.”