🔗 Share this article

Pep Guardiola expressed gratitude that his squad boasts Erling Haaland scoring and Gianluigi Donnarumma preventing them, after a victory at Brentford's ground that came with another injury concern for the midfielder.

The Striker's Remarkable Form

"I have an incredible striker and keeper," remarked the coach, with Haaland's early goal proving the winning one. Haaland's current form are reaching the levels of City's 2022-23 campaign, as the number nine has found the net in nine straight games. "He's the top," added his boss. "During the season of the three trophies, he notched – how many? – countless times? In my view he's integrated now, he's settled. He believes now that this is mine."

The Keeper's Vital Contribution

On Donnarumma's important save from the opponent, he stated: "He starts to play at the top level at 17. When I learned he's twenty-six it's like he's had decades of football. His composure, his presence. Against teams who are strong you get a single chance and he did it today. A one-on-one situation."

Guardiola's Milestone Achievement

Pep reached the individual milestone of two hundred and fifty Premier League victories, overtaking Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger in reaching that number in a record-breaking 349 games. "I will invite them to a good dinner, perhaps elsewhere, somewhere sunnier," he remarked of those legendary managers. "Alternatively in the city. It's an honor and a privilege to be part of Premier League history. I say thank you to the club and the squad and the staff I had. We achieved it quicker and sooner. Next we aim for 250 games more."

Rodri's Fitness Setback

Regarding the player's hamstring issue, the latest problem after a serious knee issue last season, Guardiola said: "I would love to have him frequently but after one year it happens constantly, it is very taxing. This is why we attempted to be cautious, play for 60-65 minutes but it cannot happen more."

The Opponent's Response

Keith Andrews, expressed satisfaction that his side improved after City's opening period dominance to threaten until the final whistle. "Our aim to do is bring a team together, a club together, after numerous transitions," he stated. "I think it's developing. I think you could observe that in the second half performance today against elite rivals."