‘Always’… Man City manager Pep Guardiola heaps praise on key Newcastle man ahead of Saturday’s game

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Manchester City might be the favourites for Saturday’s game against Newcastle United, but Pep Guardiola is expecting to endure a very tough evening.

Most pundits are backing Manchester City to beat Newcastle United on Saturday night, which is no surprise.

They won the reverse fixture earlier this season, beating Newcastle 1-0 at the Etihad Stadium. Julian Alvarez scored the only goal of the game as they kept Eddie Howe‘s side at bay.

But it was a different story in the Carabao Cup, as the Magpies triumphed to dump Guardiola and co out of the competition. Newcastle were very impressive that night, with Alexander Isak scoring the only goal of the game.

Newcastle have proven under Howe that they can hang with Manchester City, and the Toon manager is the big reason why Guardiola is expecting such a tough game at St James’ Park.

Pep Guardiola has huge respect for Eddie Howe

Guardiola spoke to the media ahead of his team’s trip to Newcastle, and shared his admiration for Toon boss Eddie Howe.

“Always has been [tough opponents] especially since Eddie Howe took over,“ he said.

“The opponent is there. We’ve faced him many times with Bournemouth and Newcastle. We have a good history together.“

Howe’s Newcastle can match Man City

As always, Guardiola is very complimentary towards Howe. The Manchester City manager always has some kind words for Howe, clearly respecting his ability and appreciating the job he has done at Newcastle.

It is always a great tactical battle between the two, and the games have become much closer – particularly at St James’ Park. There was the Carabao Cup win for Newcastle earlier this season, while the 3-3 draw back in 2022 was an exhilarating game of football.

Newcastle will need to be at that level to get anything out of the game on Saturday, as they prepare to take on a Man City side that could welcome Kevin De Bruyne back to the starting lineup. However, there will be no Erling Haaland, who has been ruled out of the trip to Tyneside.