Pep Guardiola was ecstatic with Jeremy Doku’s sparkling display against Bournemouth. Manchester City ran out 6-1 winners over the Cherries at the Etihad. Doku scored one and set up four goals in a virtuoso performance from the Belgian international.
Speaking post-game Guardiola was thrilled with the Belgian winger’s performance. When asked if he was happy with Doku’s game Pep said: “Yes, and not just the first time this season. In his first game against Fulham, he was so shy, but at West Ham, he started to show his incredible skills. He played really good there and all the games here at home he played fantastic. But he’s not just one against one and one against two. He surprised all of us – he’s a great footballer.”
It was the drive and Doku’s passing ability that continually opened up the Bournemouth defence. His passing ability wasn’t one of his known strengths when he was signed from Rennes. But it has been a pleasant surprise and added another weapon to the City set-up.
The only downside from the emphatic win was the injury to Erling Haaland. City’s number 9 was subbed off at halftime with an ankle injury. Pep Guardiola didn’t believe that the injury was serious but was waiting for the City doctor to assess the injury. He explained: “I didn’t speak with the doctor yet. We’ll see in the next few days. It is the ankle.”
Manchester City is next in action in the UEFA Champions League at home against Young Boys. With Chelsea next up in the Premier League and City in a dominant position in Group G of the Champions League, no risks will be taken with Haaland.
After four consecutive wins in all competitions, the European champions will be keen to continue their good form against Young Boys.
