Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola shared his thoughts on the game after the 2-1 victory over Newcastle. The Spanish specialist assessed this result not as just a simple three points, but as a big step for the team's spirit and the direction of the season.
According to Guardiola, playing against an opponent like Newcastle always tests your nerves. Because the "crows" fight for every meter on the field, firmly "guard" the players, instantly increase the pressure, and quickly move to attack. Therefore, the first minutes of the match were very difficult for City.
The coach also highlighted the opponent's current profile. He says Newcastle has become a completely different team - more organized, physically strong, and playing in an aggressive style - since Saudi Arabia joined the club and Eddie Howe took over the team.
Guardiola also recalled Newcastle's recent strong performance in Europe: three days ago in the Champions League, they finished the first half 5-0, which was a serious warning for City as well. From this perspective, the coach was pleased that this time the "citizens" behaved correctly on the field, maintained the tempo at the right time, and achieved the result.
The conclusion is simple: Guardiola doesn't consider Newcastle an "easy opponent," on the contrary - he's saying today's victory showed which team is truly ready. If this tempo is maintained, City's plans for the upcoming rounds will also become more serious.
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