This Sunday's derby at the Etihad Stadium saw United lose 3-1 to their cross-city rivals. The Red Devils were outclassed in the second half and lost three goals, despite grabbing the lead thanks to a magnificent strike from Marcus Rashford. Even though Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the new co-owner of United, recently pledged to knock City "off their perch," it served as just another reminder of the gap that exists between the two teams. As per the five-time Champions League winner, the club has to follow their neighbours' blueprint if they want to return to winning ways.

Speaking after the game, the Brazilian told ESPN Brasil: "The first big objective is to catch up with them (City) at this moment.

"Not in terms of history, as the history of United speaks for itself, but they are today the team to beat. Everyone wants to beat City.

"It is very clear the new owners (INEOS) want to evolve the club's level, with City being our mirror. They have been doing a great job. I hope they (INEOS) help us grow together."

While City have ruled the top flight, United have been in a funk for the past ten years, failing to challenge for a Premier League championship. The Manchester City brass has been working with Pep Guardiola for years, putting together a plan and hiring the right players, and their efforts have paid off handsomely. In the last six years, City has won five titles, and will hope to add more trophies in the current campaign. Last season's treble also made City the first English side to seal all three titles in the same season since Manchester United back in 1999.