"They are two different teams". Experts comments on the Manchester derby

Manchester City emerged victorious over Manchester United in the derby (3:1). The Citizens conceded early in the match but responded with three goals of their own.

The former United captain Roy Keane did not criticise his former team in his comments to Sky Sports, giving credit to the performance of the Citizens.

"I don't want to be too hard on United because City were brilliant. They showed why they're champions. What City do is they find out all your shortcomings. There's no hiding place. It's like a boxing ring. They wore them down. The stats show you how dominant Man City were. Haaland and De Bruyne weren't at their best but then Foden steps up.

I think it's more credit to Man City than being too critical of Man Utd. Manchester United will have to take their medicine today. Huge question marks for this team and the manager".

Another Manchester United legend, Gary Neville, specifically praised Phil Foden, the scorer of a brace in today's match. His words are quoted by Sky Sports.

"Sometimes, derby matches can be emotional and passionate affairs. But for local players, those who have come through the academy it means a lot. Phil Foden is as cold as ice. Today, the special talent that for years has been described as potential and promise is here to stay. He's such a wonderful player. It's important it's him.

City go into the title run-in in a strong position. They've got a huge few weeks to come. This is the start of it. A little bit of a scare early on but they've got the job done."

Former Man City player Micah Richards for the BBC highlighted the resilience of Pep Guardiola's team and pointed out the difference between the two teams at the moment.

"I said before the game it's about being calm, composed and waiting for the right moment. City were finding it hard in the first half to break them down but it was about believing in their ability as United were so deep. Manchester United were defending so well but they can't do that for 90 minutes. In the end the quality showed.

They are two different teams - one trying to find themselves. Manchester City blew them away with their quality. "One is trying to find itself, with their structure and style of play. But the other in City, they just blew them away."

Pep Guardiola's team, with 62 points, continues to chase Liverpool, who lead the Premier League. Erik ten Hag's proteges are currently in sixth position and lag behind the Champions League zone.