Pep Guardiola got the better of Newcastle United on Saturday, but the Manchester City manager is certainly a fan of what is going on at St James’ Park.
The Man City boss was full of praise for Eddie Howe going into the game, admitting that it is always a difficult fixture when they come face to face.
That proved to be the case yet again, with Man City grabbing a stoppage time winner through Oscar Bobb. Had it not been for two moments of magic from Kevin De Bruyne, Newcastle might have got something out of the game.
Bruno Guimaraes was one of the Magpies’ best players, and he is someone who has previously received praise from Guardiola. He is a big fan of the Brazilian, and so he should be. He is an elite midfielder who ranks among the Premier League’s best.
And now Guardiola has admitted that he is a fan of another one of Newcastle’s top stars, heaping praise on Alexander Isak.
Pep Guardiola seriously impressed with Alexander Isak
Guardiola has spoke to Man City’s official YouTube channel about Isak, who scored Newcastle’s equaliser against Man City on Saturday night.
“Since arriving, his impact has been really good,” he said.
“He had the conditions to be an incredible striker with his speed, his finishing.
“We started to follow him at Real Sociedad. We were impressed. He was a target. Wow. He is a young player but with these skills, all the clubs around the world take a look. It’s not a surprise and he’s adapted really well here in the Premier League. I don’t know him personally, but I admire him a lot.”
Newcastle star is the second best striker in the Premier League
It is not a massive shock to hear Guardiola claim that Manchester City were interested in Isak. In the end they bought Erling Haaland, who is without a doubt the best striker in the Premier League.
But you could argue that he is followed by Isak, who is certainly cementing his position as the second best.
The 24-year-old is enjoying a sensational season, and now has 14 goals in all competitions. His latest was an incredible strike on Saturday night, as he continues to prove why the comparisons to Thierry Henry are bang on the money.
Guardiola has spoke about Isak’s potential, explaining how he had the tools at a young age to become a top level striker. He is realising that potential now, but there is certainly more to come from the Magpies’ record signing.
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