Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised Newcastle United and Eddie Howe ahead of Saturday’s game at St James’ Park.
The Premier League champions are heading to Tyneside this weekend, with Manchester City taking on Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
It is going to be a very difficult game for Eddie Howe’s side, who have not played well this season.
To make matters worse, Alexander Isak is a doubt to face Manchester City due to a toe injury.
However, Pep Guardiola has his own injury issues. Man City will be without Rodri and Kevin de Bruyne this weekend – two of their most influential players.
Regardless, they will go into the game as favourites. Paul Merson has tipped Manchester City to beat Newcastle. However, Alan Shearer has optimistically predicted a draw between Newcastle and Man City.
Pep Guardiola praises Newcastle United ahead of Man City game
It should be a fascinating game on Saturday afternoon. This fixture has proven to be quite enthralling in recent years, with Newcastle causing Man City real problems at St James’ Park.
Ahead of the game, Pep Guardiola has spoken to the media, and he has delivered a very kind verdict on his opponents this weekend.
“Newcastle are always impressive,” he said.
“Since Eddie [Howe] has been there, they are one of the toughest, strongest opponents, home and away but especially away.
“We are going ready for the battle.”
Eddie Howe’s record against Pep Guardiola
While Newcastle have given Man City some brilliant games since Eddie Howe became manager, the Toon boss does not have a great record against Guardiola.
He has only beaten him once during his time on Tyneside. That came in last season’s Carabao Cup, where Newcastle won 1-0 thanks to Alexander Isak’s goal.
In fact, that is Howe’s only ever win against Guardiola. As Bournemouth and Newcastle manager, Howe has faced Guardiola 16 times in all competitions. His record is one win, one draw and 14 losses.
Guardiola delivers message to Darren Eales following Newcastle United announcement
Ahead of Newcastle United’s game against Manchester City, it has been announced that Darren Eales will be stepping down from his role as the Magpies’ CEO.
Eales, who joined Newcastle in 2022, has been diagnosed with a chronic form of blood cancer. He will continue in his role at St James’ Park until his successor is appointed.
The footballing world is showing love and support for Eales, as he gets set to leave his role at Newcastle United due to his health.
Following the announcement, Guardiola took the opportunity in his press conference to send a message to Darren Eales on behalf of himself and Manchester City.
“Myself and everyone at the club want to wish him the best recovery for him and his family,” he said.
“Hopefully, he can go through and be healthy, which is the most important thing.”
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