Despite their feud boiling over during their time managing Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively, Guardiola said: "He was my coach, my assistant coach with Sir Bobby Robson (at Barca)".
The Belgian midfielder was one of Man United's best players in our opening two games against Bournemouth and Southampton, much to the surprise of fans given how little faith we all had in his ability to actually put in some consistent performances. "Jose and I don't play, so I'm sorry". So, believe me, it's on the pitch, with the players, the bigger stars. I love my job because I am with them. "It's simple like that".
Arguably the two greatest coaches in the world, the pair face off at Old Trafford both armed with expensively-assembled squads in the most highly-anticipated Premier League game of the season so far.
"He's played with Chelsea previously and he will bring a good personality", Conte said.
"This game belongs to the players, it doesn't belong to me and Jose".
"When you play to try and win the title, especially in the first phase of the season I don't feel any match more important than another one, so for me it is one more match".
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Now, with Zlatan playing under Mourinho once again, and Guardiola seemingly the only man standing between the pair and an nearly fairytale Premier League title for Zlatan in his maiden Premier League campaign under Mourinho, the old rivalry seems ready to fire up once again.
Ibrahimovic, who arrived at Old Trafford on a free transfer has scored four goals in four appearances, and Henry earmarked the Swede as a key player in Saturday's lunchtime kickoff that will feature around 600 million pounds ($798 million) of talent.
Asked what problem Guardiola's side present Mourinho with compared to other teams, the Portuguese responded: "Players".
Adapting to Guardiola's style they also have the higher average possession and successful passes, translating into a slightly higher number of chances in the final third.
One of the most interesting ones will involve Zlatan Ibrahimovic as he squares off against Guardiola for the first time in English football.
Why? As always, it's a case of which Liverpool team turns up here but Jurgen Klopp's side often rise to the big occasion. Surely both Managers would snap your hands off for a point if they were offered it right now? "Look at what he's done in the game - going to Italy and Spain and doing it out there - and now he's trying to emulate his phenomenal record in England". It helps also when you win.
