Manchester machinations set up battle royale

LONDON - A year later than expected, Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho and Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola appear set for a season-long fight for the Premier League title.

Having overseen successful offseason spending sprees after lackluster debut terms in charge at Old Trafford and Eastlands, Mourinho and Guardiola have put United and City in pole position among the early pace-setters.

After five matches, they have led their teams to identical records - four wins, one draw, 16 goals scored, two conceded. Only alphabetical order is keeping leader City above second-placed United.