Ander Herrera says all the pressure is on Manchester City to win the Premier League title this season.
City and local rivals Manchester United head the Premier League on the same points and goal difference, with Pep Guardiola’s side top on alphabetical order.
But United midfielder Herrera said all the expectation is on City to lift the title, after a £218million summer spend and the fact they ended last season empty-handed, while Jose Mourinho’s side won three trophies.
“City have spent the biggest amount in the Premier League, so they are the principle contenders for the title,” said Herrera.
“We have quality as well but, because of the money they have spent, they are the favourites.
“We will try to be there. There’s pressure when you spend a lot, but there’s also pressure on us because we’re the biggest club in England.
“We won three titles last season and City didn’t win anything. They are under pressure. They need titles to keep everyone happy.
“They’re obligated to win something. More so than us.
“But you know when you play for United that you’re under an obligation to win things and I like that obligation, to be honest.”
City’s mega summer spend included £130m on three full-backs, with United also investing heavily to the tune of £160m, including £75m on striker Romelu Lukaku, rising to £90m.
The Manchester rivals do not meet in the league until December 9 at Old Trafford, but already the title race is shaping up to be a thrilling battle between old managerial foes Guardiola and Mourinho.
After Guardiola’s side dismantled Watford 6-0, United responded with a 4-0 win at home to Everton, although Reds midfielder Juan Mata said he and his team-mates are not getting carried away.
“We’re happy, for sure, but we keep the euphoria away from the dressing room,” said Mata. “Inside, we remain calm, with our feet firmly on the ground.
“We haven’t won anything yet, this is just the beginning and, with such a busy schedule, there’s no time to slow down and relax.”