"We've lost two matches in a row, which is terrible," Haaland told Viaplay on 11/9. "We have to find a way to get back to winning. We can't afford to drop any more points with so many strong teams around. The derby with Man Utd is the perfect opportunity to turn things around."

Man City began the 2025-2026 Premier League season with a resounding 4-0 victory at Wolves. However, in the next two rounds, they lost 0-2 to Tottenham and 1-2 to Brighton, dropping to 13th place.

This is the first time Man City has lost two of their first three Premier League matches since the 2004-2005 season, when they finished 8th. Only one team has ever lost two of their first three games and still won the title: Man Utd in the 1992-1993 season.

Erling Haaland (left) and Rodri disappointed after Man City's loss to Tottenham in the second round of the Premier League at Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England on 23/8/2025. Photo: *AP*

Meanwhile, Man Utd is currently in 9th place with 4 points. They started the season with a 0-1 defeat to Arsenal, drew 1-1 with Fulham, and then narrowly beat Burnley 3-2. They were also eliminated from the English League Cup by fourth-tier Grimsby.

"Losing isn't pleasant; it makes you frustrated," Haaland emphasized his determination. "We have to turn that frustration into motivation to play better in the next match. I expect the whole team to perform at their highest level."

Like Haaland, coach Pep Guardiola admitted Man City's start has not met expectations and affirmed that he doesn't rely on past glories. "I'm not here just because of what I've achieved," the Spanish coach stressed. "If I don't succeed, I'll be sacked. I want to take responsibility, broaden my shoulders to share the burden with the players."

Guardiola, whose contract was recently extended to 2027, expressed his desire to rebuild as he enters his 10th season managing Man City. "I'm proud to have been here for a decade, but I still want to help the team achieve more success," he said.

Gianluigi Donnarumma in his first training session with Man City on 11/9. Photo: *Man City*

On the last day of the 2025 summer transfer window, Man City signed goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma for a total fee of 46 million USD and sent Ederson to Fenerbahce for 16 million USD. The Italian newcomer is likely to start in the derby. "Donnarumma has his own qualities; we don't expect him to play exactly like Ederson," Guardiola said.

The 54-year-old coach praised Donnarumma's stature and experience, a goalkeeper who has played at the highest level for AC Milan, PSG, and the Italian national team over the past decade. "Donnarumma is tall, has a strong personality, and is a pillar for his teammates in big games. There will certainly be times when he concedes goals, but what matters is his presence and the confidence he brings," Guardiola explained.

The Man City coach also paid tribute to the veteran players who left Etihad Stadium during the summer transfer window, such as Ederson, Ilkay Gundogan (to Galatasaray), and Manuel Akanji (to Inter Milan). "It's unimaginable what we've achieved without them. But now it's time to look ahead, and Donnarumma is a key piece for the new journey," Guardiola affirmed.

Compiled by Hong Duy