Ruben Amorim has conceded that it will take more than mere fortune to secure a third victory over Pep Guardiola. The Manchester United manager has twice outwitted Guardiola this season, first with Sporting Lisbon in a stunning 4-1 Champions League triumph against Guardiola's Manchester City in November, followed by a dramatic 2-1 win in the derby at the champions' ground, where United scored both goals in the dying minutes.
However, Amorim acknowledged that luck played a significant role in those wins. Looking ahead to the chance of completing a double over their fierce rivals at Old Trafford, he recognises the need for a fresh approach to defy the odds.
When quizzed about his secret for success against Guardiola, Amorim candidly responded: "Luck!".
"First game was lucky. In the first half, it could have been 4-0 to them - and we won 4-1. The second game - I think I preferred the second game when we won in the last seconds.
"I think they controlled the possession a little more, but we were there fighting with Manchester City.
"But if I have to tell you one thing, again it was maybe luck."
Amorim further stated: "Of course we now need more than luck - because the odds drop! But we are prepared for the game and we are improving in some aspects of our game.
"Sometimes the results are not there but we are improving - and I can see that. So let's continue with that idea.
"We know we have to adapt the way we play and we are working on that to be prepared for Sunday."
In a dramatic turn of events at the Etihad, United were lagging behind with a 1-0 scoreline until the final two minutes, only to leave City shell-shocked as Bruno Fernandes levelled from the penalty spot before Amad Diallo secured victory with a smart finish.
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