Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini had no qualms with the 4-2 result at Manchester United on Sunday.

City were brushed aside by their crosstown rivals at Old Trafford after taking an early lead through Sergio Aguero but faltered after their impressive opening 15-minute spell.

Goals from Ashley Young, Marouane Fellaini, Juan Mata and Chris Smalling had the Red Devils jumping for joy before Aguero grabbed a late consolation in what was another sub-par performance from the reigning champions.

"I think it was a clear result for Man United," he said.

"We didn't defend well, especially for their goals, and they started playing with a lot of trust and they were clear winners."

The loss saw City drop four points behind third-placed United but they remain five ahead of fifth-placed Southampton with six fixtures remaining.