“What he did with Barcelona was fantastic”, said Schmeichel, who completed his career with one season at City.
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According to the Sun’s Neil Custis, long-term nemesis Guardiola will be no exception despite Mourinho and the former Barcelona manager’s long-term and public feud.
Pep Guardiola’s side have gotten off to a 100% winning start in both the Premier League and their Champions League play-off, but the Germany worldwide is hoping to muscle his way into the starting XI for the club’s biggest game of the season so far.
Few will argue with their methods, however, and some pundits are already predicting that whoever emerges as Manchester’s top team will win the Premier League.
Guardiola is set to take part in his first derby game against United at Old Trafford on Saturday and the the former Danish keeper offered up these less than glowing comments for the Spanish tactician.
Having made big-budget signings in the recently concluded summer transfer window, City and United have begun their season on a high taking nine points from three games each.
Mourinho’s impact has been no less marked, with world-record signing Paul Pogba making the expected impact in midfield and Marouane Fellaini looking a player reborn.
Boosted by the absence of suspended star striker Sergio Aguero in the opposition line-up, the home defence is sure to be afforded plenty of protection as it attempts to keep a third consecutive clean sheet.
Marcus Rashford and Kelechi Iheanacho are both pushing for a start at Old Trafford after stating their cases during the worldwide break.
Ahead of the current campaign, both managers were at pains to play down the significance of their rivalry. Guardiola has been equally dismissive.
Perhaps this is Mourinho trying to be like the Old Trafford legend?
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Despite Guardiola being one of the most regarded coaches in football, Schmeichel has doubts about the Spaniard’s ability as he prepares for his first Manchester derby clash on Saturday.
