Manchester City have shown their champion’s mentality to secure a vital 1-nil win over potential title rival Newcastle United overnight.
Coming into the game following Wednesday night’s UEFA Super Cup triumph over Sevilla, and with key players injured, Pep Guardiola’s side controlled Newcastle for the majority of the game. It was a performance that sent a message to the City’s title rivals that the treble winners mean business this season.
Phil Foden put in a man-of-the-match display playing in central midfield showing he is more than capable of filling the void left by Kevin De Bruyne’s injury. It was one of the best performances of the City Academy graduate’s career. Foden was at his creative best, creating a plethora of chances for the European champions. He provided the assist for Julian Alvarez to score the only goal of the game.
Pick that one out! 🎯🤟 pic.twitter.com/cQgmKoyx8N
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 19, 2023
It was Foden at the heart of everything for City, and he also set up a plethora of opportunities for Erling Haaland. On another day the Norwegian striker may have had a hat-trick, but his radar was off on this occasion.
Pep Guardiola spoke of how key his squad’s mentality is after a fantastic performance.
.@PepTeam‘s thoughts on tonight’s win! 💬#ManCity pic.twitter.com/FDfbCZkf9o
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 19, 2023
After such a busy and successful week for Pep Guardiola’s squad, they now have a week to prepare for next weekend’s trip to Bramal Lane to face newly promoted Sheffield United. A week between games should see key players return for another crunch clash.
After showing the mentality that separates the treble winners from their rivals against Newcastle, the Premier League champions appear ready to defend their crown this season.
