Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca spoke about Elliot's Anderson's claim when he joined the club in summer
Elliot Anderson
Elliot Anderson
View Image
Enzo Maresca backed up Elliot Anderson's claim that Manchester City are the 'kings of Manchester' ahead of the first derby of the season. Anderson picked the Blues over the Reds this summer as he completed a £116m move from Nottingham Forest and declared that he had joined the best.
The debate has inevitably risen again ahead of Sunday's game and United will be determined to show that their midfield can match City's after spending less than half in that position despite both clubs signing three players. But as much as Anderson's comment instantly got City fans on side, Maresca believes it is also just a 'normal' opinion for anyone from a generation who has been brought up in an era of City' success.
"Probably the reason why Elliot said that is because he grew up in the last 15 years. I think Manchester City was unbelievable with what they achieved. I think it's normal to say that," said Maresca.
"If you go back, it's a different picture. For me the reason why Elliot said that is because when he grew up Manchester City was dominant."
City have finished above United for 13 consecutive seasons - every year since Sir Alex Ferguson left Old Trafford and all 10 of Pep Guardiola's time at the Etihad. City are hoping that Enzo Maresca can continue their success rather than see the drop-off that other clubs have faced replacing great managers, and it has been a useful start.
Three wins from their opening three games mean that the Blues head to Old Trafford with five points more than their neighbours already, and can go eight points ahead with a victory. United can close the gap to two in what is already a big game for Carrick.