Ryan Giggs believes Manchester United's current rivalry with Manchester City to be akin to that which they had against Arsenal.

The Welsh winger says that United's 3-2 victory over Roberto Mancini's side at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday reminded him of the matches he played against Arsenal between 1997 and 2004.

"We had so many battles with Arsenal that were skilful games, but also physically tough, and I felt the game was like that on Sunday," Ryan told United's podcast Red Voices.

"It is two very good teams with the added spice that it's a local derby. Over the last three years, each Manchester derby has intensified.

"The build-up is longer, people start talking about it earlier and the feeling when you win is even better."

Giggs reflected on the game and hailed his team for not settling for a draw in the Premier League clash.

"It was two quality sides, both in good form and going head to head at the top of the league," said the 39-year-old.

"We took the first half and then City came back into life like we expected, but I thought we still looked dangerous and had goals in us during the second half.

"At 2-2, with City coming back into it, most people would've settled for a draw, but we score late goals so often and there is no better feeling, especially in such a big game."

The win saw United go six points clear of City at the top of the league table.