Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola expressed his respect for Manchester United and defended their manager, Erik ten Hag, ahead of the FA Cup final. In a press conference on Friday, Guardiola acknowledged United's historical significance and addressed the challenges faced by ten Hag due to numerous injuries.

"Manchester United are still United. Of course, in the Premier League, we were better than them, more consistent than them, but it's just one game," Guardiola stated. Manchester City recently clinched their fourth consecutive Premier League title and aim to secure a historic double by winning the FA Cup at Wembley on Saturday.

Despite finishing eighth in the league, their worst position since 1990, Manchester United remains the most successful club in the league's history with twenty titles and the second most successful in the FA Cup with twelve wins. Guardiola emphasized the importance of respecting United's legacy.

Guardiola agreed with ten Hag's assessment that injuries significantly impacted United's performance this season. Key players in United's defense, including Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, and Lisandro Martinez, have all suffered injuries. Maguire will miss the final, while City's goalkeeper Ederson is also unavailable, with Stefan Ortega set to start.

The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Manchester City looking to achieve a rare consecutive double and Manchester United striving to reclaim their stature in English football.