Former Manchester United striker Jordi Cruyff can see Manchester City displaying the best traits of Barcelona.

Cruyff, 44, joined United from Barca — the club built in his father Johan's image — in 1996 when they were the dominant force in England.

He said: “Things look even worse for United since City have taken over the football vision of Barcelona.

“That is not just down to Pep Guardiola. Right now, three key positions in the club are taken by former Barcelona people. Pep is the coach and responsible for the team.

“Txiki Begiristain has the overall technical view as director of football and Ferran Soriano keeps his eye on the business side of the club.

“By having a trio with such strong Barcelona ties indicates that City have gone for a clear philosophy, which is leading to trophies and success everywhere. The philosophy of what the club stands for has gone at United.

“I get a strong feeling there is no plan which says which way the club is going and which could guide all the people working there."