Mourinho, Guardiola play down animosity

Rival managers Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola have dismissed suggestions there will be animosity between them during the Manchester derby, BBC reports.

Manchester United play neighbours Manchester City at Old Trafford on Saturday (12:30 BST) in one of the most eagerly anticipated Manchester derbies for decades.

Both United and City have new 'super coaches' in Mourinho and Guardiola respectively, and have started the Premier League season with 100% winning records.

The clubs spent heavily in a record-breaking summer transfer window, with United re-signing midfielder Paul Pogba for an £89m world record fee, and City making John Stones the second most expensive defender in history. at £47.5m.

Former Barcelona boss Guardiola suggested any personal rivalry with ex-Real Madrid manager Mourinho was created "from the media".

"We can't control that," added the Spaniard. "I said it many times - I have a lot of respect for Mourinho. I always try to learn from all of my colleagues - it's the same with him.

"He was my coach, my assistant coach with Sir Bobby Robson. OK, the last period at Barcelona and Real Madrid was not easy for both of us but we met each other two, three weeks ago at the managers' Premier League meeting.

"Of course I'll accept a glass of wine after the game if he invites me."

Portuguese Mourinho added: "I know what the derby means. I've played them everywhere, but I always want to be in a position of emotional control. If we want to win we have to be at the top.

"They have a very good manager. They always have very good players and bought more. They are what they are since I returned to England. They are a title contender and you have to respect them."