Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola was proud of Micah Hamilton and the Manchester City academy after their 3-2 win over Red Star Belgrade. The City manager rotated his squad for their final Group G game of the Champions League. Micah Hamilton and Oscar Bobb starred for the European champions in the win. There was also a first team debut for Mahamadou Susoho in the second half.
Speaking post-game Guardiola said he was happy for Hamilton and how well he played. He told the media: “What a goal and what a game. I am so happy for him. He is training well and we saw his skills. He made a fantastic goal. Defensively he was aggressive.”
The City manager also had special praise for the City academy. Besides Bobb and Hamilton’s performances, Mahamadou Susoho also made his first team debut. “Congratulations to our Academy for how many players came up and how many we sell. We had Mo as well, he played really well as well.”
He also had special praise for the EDS for providing so many players with the platform to begin their careers. There are host of academy graduates now playing in the Premier League and the Championship. Guardiola added: “It’s a compliment to the Academy. Cole Palmer was here. Romeo Lavia, James Trafford, Bazunu. Many players in our Academy are in the Premier League or Championship. They have done unbelievable. It is top class.”
To see City’s youngsters shine last night speaks volumes for how well the academy is run. With players such as Cole Palmer, Romeo Lavia, James Trafford and Gavin Bazunu all learning their craft at the club it is a gold mine for Manchester City. With Bobb and Hamilton starring and Mahamadou Susoho also making his debut the Manchester City first team is now reaping the rewards of the elite youth program at the club.
