Manchester United vs Manchester City: Louis van Gaal claims Champions League disadvantage ahead of derby

United face long trip to Russia while City play at home

Louis van Gaal (GETTY IMAGES)

Is Louis van Gaal getting his excuses in early?

Ahead of the much anticipated Manchester derby this weekend, both sides are in Champions League action and the fall of the fixtures has given advantage to the blue half of the city, according to the Dutch coach.

While Manchester United travel 1,600 miles to Russia to play CSKA Moscow, Manuel Pellegrini's side entertain Sevilla on home turf at the Etihad Stadium.

"Every club at the top of the league has the same problems. But now Manchester City has a benefit because they are playing at home and that is a difference," the United manager said.

"You have the benefit of the recuperation. Manchester City don't have the travel we have so they have more rest.

"There is nothing you can do. They have the benefit.

"We do a lot of things to try and help. We have cold baths, we have warm baths, less training sessions and practice so the freshness is good enough to beat City. But first we have to beat Moscow."

To help their recovery, the Manchester United squad will stay in Russia on Wednesday night, rather than travel home straight after the match, as is customary.

If Arsenal drop points against Everton and United beat City on Sunday, they will move back to the top of the Premier League.