Pep Guardiola
Following Manchester City’s victory over Southampton, Pep Guardiola, the City manager, focused on commending the performance of Southampton and their manager, Russell Martin, during his post-match analysis. Despite Manchester City’s win, secured by an early goal from Erling Haaland, Guardiola expressed his admiration for Southampton’s bravery and strategy, acknowledging their significant possession in the first half. Although the City dominated the second half, they couldn’t ensure a more decisive scoreline, allowing Southampton to demonstrate their capability.
Pep Guardiola said, “If they had more possession it’s because they are good. If Erling didn’t run or Matheus, Savio, Phil, Kova, Bernie [that is a problem]. But we run incredible today. We don’t like it – but it’s not because we were bad. It’s because they were good. When it happens, accept it and learn. Maybe in the future we can use it. As a manager, I learn a lot from opponents. What they do, ‘that is a good idea’, why do you apply it? It’s not easy, but we create enough chances to win better. I like to win in that way, it proves in the last two games against Wolves and Southampton who right now are bottom of the league. Look how difficult it was. When people say in the Premier League everyone can beat everyone, that is the truth. Every game is a battle, is so difficult. When the opponent is good you have to accept it. This is what happened. Their build-up is exceptional. They open the channels. I knew after what people had said to me about Russell [Martin] and we tasted it today. The players were not bad, they were good. When a team plays that level you have to accept it. Important thing is being there. We created chances, as always Erling [Haaland] had two or three clear ones. But I’m not concerned, it’s important to have 23 points now.”
