The Manchester Derby is quickly becoming one-sided thanks to the changes that Pep Guardiola has made to the Manchester City team in the nine years he has been at the helm of things at the club.
The 168th Manchester Derby was effectively over in the 68th minute after Erling Haaland scored his second goal of the game. In recent derbies, Haaland has also been the big name, and once again, he showed why he remains the best striker in the world with a brace that takes his tally to 5 goals in four games for City this season, as they look to reclaim gold.
Guardiola praised his team for the work they put in, reserving special praise for a few players, particularly the Norwegian, who has already hit the ground running this season for club and country.
“Erling never disappoints us since he arrived,” said Guardiola. “Erling has the commitment, that is why he signed a contract for many years. He’s a special player.”
Another player who received praise is the Uzbekistan international, Abdukodir Khusanov, who is looking to make a mark this season. The natural CB played as the club’s right-back for the derby and put in a solid performance.
“We have in the next 11 months to play every three days. No human being can do that. I know for his physicality, he’s so fast and closed that side really well,” Pep said in his praise of Khusanov. “[He didn’t] lose too many balls – sometimes his energy makes him make not the right decision.
“Dorgu is so fast and he has incredible speed. Today [Abdukodir] was really good.”
Foden also received high praise for his performance, especially for setting the tone of the match with his goal in the 18th minute. “We missed him so much,” said Pep. “He moved behind the striker. He has the sense of the team and quality to keep the ball.
“Most play the ball and say, ‘look how good the pass was’. He makes the pass and zoom! We cannot forget two seasons ago when we won the last game against West Ham. He was the key player to win the Premier League. Last season, for injuries and other reasons he could not be with us but hopefully step by step he can get back.”
“He is a Manchester City supporter, and he can do what he’s able to do. Joy and happiness on his face and we’re going to have the best Phil.”
