Van Gaal, who insists he is not “jealous” of the squad with which Pellegrini won the title last season, believes a derby victory could provide the catalyst for the evolution of his team.
Robin van Persie’s injury-time equaliser against Chelsea last Sunday has lifted confidence at United, with the club desperate to bounce back under Van Gaal after being marooned in seventh position and out of Europe under David Moyes last season.
But, after guiding City to a 4-1 home victory and 3-0 away win against United last season, Pellegrini claims he has yet to see signs of renewed strength at Old Trafford.
When asked whether he believed United would visit the Etihad tomorrow as a “stronger” team than under Moyes, Pellegrini replied: “Similar. I think that both teams are similar.
“I think Manchester United bought very important players this year, but I think also they are at the moment where you start with a new manager and new players, which is not easy.”
City, who have won five of the past six Manchester derbies in the league, can secure their fourth successive victory against United for the first time in 44 years tomorrow.
The champions’ prospects have been dented, however, by confirmation that midfielder David Silva faces up to a month out with knee ligament damage.
Wayne Rooney’s return from suspension for United is a boost for Van Gaal, and the manager insists that his squad – more
expensive than City’s at a total of €488m compared to €435m – do not fall short in comparison.
“I am not jealous of the squad of Manchester City,” Van Gaal said. “I am proud of my players and, when we play like a team, then we have a big chance to win.
“What we have seen of Manchester City in the last matches was not so good, but that was also the same last year, so youcnever know.”
Meanwhile, Pellegrini insisted “I don’t know what pressure is” when asked if he was feeling the strain after City’s poor run of form.
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