Pep Guardiola says he doesn’t believe so when asked about Ruben Amorim following the Manchester United appointment.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shared his thoughts on new Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim ahead of Tuesday night’s Champions League match against Sporting Lisbon.

Guardiola doesn’t expect tonight’s game with Sporting to spark an “epic rivalry” between him and Amorim.

Amorim, appointed as United’s head coach last Friday, will lead Sporting for one of his final games before moving to Old Trafford next week. He has signed with United through 2027 and will face City again in just over a month when he brings United to the Etihad for the first Manchester derby of the season on December 15.

Guardiola, who welcomed Amorim’s move to English football, said he doesn’t think this clash in Lisbon signals the start of a prolonged rivalry. When asked by TNT Sports if this match would mark the beginning of an “epic battle” between them, Guardiola replied, “I don’t think so. From what I can see, he seems like a great guy. On the sidelines, he conducts himself much better than I do.”

“I’m genuinely pleased he’s coming to England to manage United,” Guardiola continued. “Both clubs are highly respected at the top.”

Tonight, City will also need to manage the emotions surrounding Amorim’s final home game with Sporting. His last match for the club is set for Sunday against Braga.

“Yes, it can be challenging,” Guardiola said when asked about the emotional aspect. “The last game at home, a Champions League night, will make it tougher. But ultimately, it’s a football game—11 against 11, and we’ll try to play our game.”