David Beckham as a former Manchester United player was always going to support his former club over their bitter local rivals Manchester City. Unsurprisingly, after six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and one Champions League triumph during his 10 campaigns at Old Trafford.
But while the 36 year old acknowledged Roberto Mancini's side have developed rapidly in recent years he cannot see them toppling United.
"They're bringing good players in, they've got strong people with a lot of money behind them, so they're going to improve," Beckham told Sky Sports News.
"But they'll never be Manchester United. They might be a threat this season but United have got the history, the silverware over the last 20 years.
"There's only one team in Manchester but City I'm sure will be a team to look at going forward."
Beckham also believes the potential loss of Carlos Tevez will not unduly harm City.
"Tevez was a really strong player for them last season, so if they lose him it will be disappointing," he added.
"But they've got a lot behind them as an organisation, so they can afford to bring world class players in.
"If they continue to do that I'm sure they'll be strengthened."
