Pep Guardiola hailed Manchester City’s resilience after a hard fought 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace but insisted his side is still a work in progress despite closing the gap on Premier League leaders Arsenal to just two points.
City were forced to weather a fierce early storm at Selhurst Park, with Palace twice striking the woodwork and threatening to punish a sluggish start from the Champions. Yet, as has so often been the case under Guardiola, City found a way to win even when far from their fluent best.
Erling Haaland opened the scoring late in the first half, rising above the Palace defense to head home Matheus Nunes, pinpoint cross after a patient move involving move than 20 passes. It was a goal that shifted the momentum of a match Palace had largely dictated in terms of chances.
The visitors remained under pressure early in the second half, but their game management improved as Palace grew increasingly frustrated. Phil Foden delivered the decisive moment in the 69th minute, drilling a superb left footed strike into the bottom corner after a dazzling, defense splitting run from Rayan Cherki. Haaland then added a third from the penalty spot late on to put a flattering gloss on the scoreline.
Guardiola described the performance as “ruthless” rather than beautiful acknowledging that City are not yet operating at the heights that delivered four consecutive league titles. After last season’s unexpected dip, the City boss believes his squad reshaped and rejuvenated with younger players is still learning how to approach certain games.
“We are not at the top yet,” Guardiola admitted. “Not in mentality but in how are manage moments. Some players are young. But winning 3-0 here shows character.”
Foden, who has now scored in four consecutive league matches, echoed his manager’s assessment. Despite his crucial goal, the England international conceded he lost possession too often in the first half and tried to force the play. Guardiola was similarly frank, praising Foden’s output while demanding greater composure.
Crystal Palace, FA Cup winner last season, again proved awkward opponents, pressing aggressively and attacking directly through Yeremy Pino, Ismaila Sarr and Jean Philippe Mateta. Guardiola was quick to credit Oliver Glasner’s, side calling them one of the toughest teams City faces.
While City may not yet be the polished, relentless machine of previous title winning campaigns, this victory underlined a familiar trait: their ability to suffer, adapt and strike decisively. As the title race intensifies, Guardiola believes that resilience rather than perfection could be the quality that keeps City firmly in Arsenal’s rear view mirror.
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