Guardiola Breaks Rank to Predict “Convincing” Winner in Monday Night’s Everton vs. United Clash.

 The Mind Games have reached a “Nuclear” level. Just 24 hours before Michael Carrick’s Manchester United travel to the brand-new Hill Dickinson Stadium for a historic first visit, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has dropped a bombshell prediction that has left both Merseyside and Manchester stunned.

Speaking after City’s clinical 3-1 win over Newcastle on Saturday, February 21, 2026, Pep was asked about the top-four race and the upcoming “Monday Night Football” showdown between Everton and United. Instead of his usual diplomatic “we will see,” the Catalan legend gave a verdict that many are calling a “No Contest” decree.

“It Will Be a No Contest”—Guardiola’s Bold Verdict

Pep, who has seen his City side keep the pressure on leaders Arsenal, appeared to be in a brutally honest mood when discussing his cross-town rivals. Despite United’s recent stalemate against West Ham, Guardiola believes the “Carrick Momentum” is simply too strong for David Moyes’ men to handle.

“I won’t be biased with my prediction—this game will be a no contest. Manchester United are playing with a different spirit under Michael [Carrick] right now. They have had two weeks to prepare, they are fresh, and they have a quality in the final third that is very difficult to stop. They are going to win convincingly. Everton at the new stadium is a challenge, but United are in a ‘flow’ that makes them favorites.”

THE “REVENGE” NARRATIVE:‼️ Carrick’s 5-Game Unbeaten Run

Guardiola’s prediction adds immense weight to a United side that is desperate to avenge the 1-0 defeat they suffered at Old Trafford earlier this season.

• The Carrick Factor: Since taking over as interim boss, Carrick has yet to lose a game, turning United into the “Form Team” of 2026.

• The “Freshness” Advantage: While Everton are battling through a congested schedule, United have had a 13-day break since their 1-1 draw with West Ham.

• The Injury Gap: With Everton confirmed to be without Jake O’Brien (suspension) and long-term absentee Jack Grealish, the Toffees are “wounded,” which likely fueled Pep’s “No Contest” comment.

WHY PEP IS BACKING UNITED:‼️ Tactical “Magic”

Insiders suggest Guardiola has been “privately impressed” by how Carrick has unlocked Kobbie Mainoo and Amad Diallo. Pep reportedly views United’s new 4-2-3-1 transition game as the most dangerous in the league outside of the top two.

The “Convincing” Keys:

1. Bruno’s Freedom: Without Gana Gueye to man-mark him, Fernandes is expected to “shred” the Everton backline.

2. The Šeško Threat: Benjamin Šeško is reportedly set for a “Nuclear” start, targeting Everton’s aerial weaknesses.

3. The Hill Dickinson Atmosphere: While it’s Everton’s new home, United are looking to become the first team to “silence the waterfront.”

MOYES RESPONDS:‼️ “Let Him Talk”

When told about Guardiola’s prediction, Everton manager David Moyes remained cool. “Pep has his opinion. He’s at the top for a reason. But we’ve beaten United already this year. We know how to frustrate them. Tomorrow night, under the lights at our new home… anything can happen.”

Is Pep Guardiola right that Manchester United will “steamroll” Everton, or is he playing a masterclass of “reverse psychology” to put pressure on Michael Carrick?