Pep Guardiola admitted Manchester City won’t return to their dominant form this season but remains optimistic about the future. Erling Haaland’s goal secured a narrow 1-0 win over Tottenham, though VAR controversially ruled out a second. Spurs fought back but missed key chances as City bounced back from their Liverpool defeat.
Pep Guardiola has admitted Manchester City won’t return to their dominant best this season but remains confident they will regain their former brilliance in the future. The City boss remarked after his side’s hard-fought 1-0 win over Tottenham.
Erling Haaland, back from injury, netted his 20th league goal of the campaign within 12 minutes but failed to convert other key chances. This kept Spurs in the game, with Wilson Odobert and Pape Sarr coming close to equalizing. Haaland seemed to have sealed the win in stoppage time, but a lengthy VAR check ruled out his goal for handball. Moments later, Sarr missed a golden opportunity to snatch a late draw.
Reflecting on the match, Guardiola acknowledged City’s struggles this season, stating, “Old City were too good, but we will be back.” He admitted their inability to kill off games early has caused problems, referencing similar issues in previous matches.
Despite this, the Spanish coach praised January signing Abdukodir Khusanov for his steady defensive performance after a shaky debut against Chelsea. On Haaland’s disallowed goal, Guardiola suggested the referee was quick to make a call before VAR had enough clarity.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou admitted his team lacked composure in the first half but was pleased with their second-half dominance. However, Spurs couldn’t find a way past City’s defense and were left frustrated.
The victory helps City bounce back from their recent defeat to Liverpool, keeping them in contention for a top-four finish.
