When Manchester City make the trip to League One side Leyton Orient on Saturday lunchtime, it will mean more than most to Orient manager Richie Wellens.

The 44-year-old is a lifelong supporter of City's rivals Manchester United and remains a season ticket holder at Old Trafford. He was also a graduate of United's academy and made one appearance for the club before having a 17-year career across several clubs in the Football League.

He has since made the transition to management and has guided both Orient and Swindon to promotion from League Two in recent years and won the EFL Trophy as Salford City manager.

READ MORE: 'Deal was done' - Man City transfer that collapsed - could it happen now?

READ MORE: Man City star has immediate chance to prove Chelsea transfer decision right amid Cole Palmer scars

Orient are now flying high in League One and currently occupy one of the play-off places. They knocked out Championship side Derby County in the third round and now have City in their sights.

Wellens is not only excited to welcome the Premier League champions to Brisbane Road but is also relishing the chance to pit his wits against Pep Guardiola, who he admits has caused him pain over the last few years as a United fan.

"We can't wait," Wellens said about the prospect of facing City.

"It's good exposure for the club and we've got a lot of young, talented players who have really grown this season so for them to go up against some of the best players in the world is really good for them.

"It's more about us trying to put on a show and stay in the game as much as possible. City are a brilliant football team, but there are a few vulnerabilities about them at the moment. Can we try and expose them as much as we can?

"In terms of the day, this club almost went out of business six or seven years ago so to be where we are in the league and to be hosting probably the best team the Premier League has ever seen is huge testament to the club and how far it has come.

"Our analysts have been in their element this week, watching clips of PSG, Arsenal and Liverpool. We saw some vulnerabilities there, but they are playing against top, top opposition. It's a question of whether we are remotely able to capitalise on them.

"I have to say Pep has caused me a lot of pain in the past, me and my sons, with how good they are.

"But it's the best of the best. He's a genius, he's a pioneer, a lot of coaches look up to him. What he's done, especially in English football, he's changed a lot of coaches' thinking."