Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has revealed which Manchester City player he loves watching, after his former club’s 3-0 defeat in the derby on Sunday.

Man City turn on the style to win the derby

After a slow start to the Premier League season, Pep Guardiola may have had some concerns heading into the Manchester derby at the weekend, but his side turned on the style, recording a 3-0 victory over their bitter rivals.

Several of Guardiola’s key players caught the eye, with Jeremy Doku picking up two assists and winning seven duels, while Erling Haaland was also at his best, scoring a second-half brace to wrap up all three points for the Blues.

Not only was Haaland’s performance likely to be pleasing for Guardiola, but the manager also made it clear just how vital Phil Foden will be going forward, after the England international returned to form by scoring the opening goal.

The City boss said: “We missed him so much last season. We need him so much,”

“He’s a guy who makes a pass to the penalty spot like an animal.”

It would be fair to say Foden wasn’t at his best last season, picking up just seven goals and two assists in the Premier League, but the attacking midfielder was a difference-maker in the Manchester derby, and he has since received high praise from Scholes.

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Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, the former Man United man said: “What a player, I don’t know the lad but I just love watching the kid play football, even though he plays for them. You saw it in him yesterday, you saw him going round to people, giving them five and saying well done, and you could just see that in him, couldn’t you?”

Scholes also went on to agree with Paddy McGuinness’ assessment of the £225k-a-week England international’s abilities, saying “he’s the best”.

Guardiola needs Foden back to his best

It is always a fantastic feeling to get one over on your rivals, and Guardiola is likely to be encouraged by his side’s display, with Foden a stand-out performer, scoring the first goal in the 3-0 thrashing.

If City are to stand a chance of mounting a serious Premier League title triumph this season, the Englishman will need to reach the levels he has done previously, having won the Premier League Player of the Season award courtesy of his performances in the 2023-24 campaign.

Competition

Appearances

Goal contributions

Premier League

35

27

FA Cup

5

3

Champions League

8

8

Not only will Guardiola have his sights set on reclaiming the Premier League crown, but he will also be looking to win the Champions League for the second time, with the first League stage match against Napoli set to take place on Thursday night.