Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite their 2-0 defeat to Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday.
The loss at the Etihad Stadium saw Arne Slot’s side complete a league double over the defending champions, extending their lead at the top to 11 points and leaving City 20 points adrift.
Goals from Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai secured victory for the Reds, handing City their eighth league defeat of the season. However, Guardiola remained upbeat, highlighting his team’s display as a sign of a “bright future” for the club.
Guardiola Praises Young Players
The City boss, 54, singled out the performances of wingers Jeremy Doku and Savinho, emphasizing their contributions to the team’s attacking play. He acknowledged Liverpool’s defensive resilience but maintained that City played well throughout the match.
“It was a good game. Tight in the first half,” Guardiola said. “The second half, they defended very deep. They always have the threat, but it is not easy to control it.
“I think Doku and Savinho played an incredible game, got to the byline a lot, but from there, we just missed the magic. We played really well, so I have no regrets.”
The Spaniard also pointed to City’s growing squad depth, suggesting that the current team, alongside new additions in future transfer windows, will shape the club’s long-term success.
“I saw a bright future. Other than Kevin [De Bruyne] and Nathan [Ake], these players represent the future of this club,” he said. “We know Erling [Haaland] will return, and we have important absences, but everyone was really, really good.”
Haaland’s Availability Uncertain
Guardiola also addressed the absence of star striker Erling Haaland, who was not included in the squad for the match. When asked about Haaland’s availability for the upcoming fixture against Tottenham, the City boss remained uncertain.
“I don’t know,” he admitted. “I am not saying we didn’t get the result because Erling was not there. That would be unfair to the other players. We could have finished more chances, but in general, it is fine.”
City will now turn their focus to their next Premier League clash as they aim to recover from the setback and keep their title hopes alive.
