- Pep Guardiola praised Omar Marmoush after Brentford
- The forward scored City’s third goal in stoppage time
- Marmoush gives Man City a different attacking option
Omar Marmoush may not always start for Manchester City, but his role is becoming increasingly useful for Pep Guardiola.
The Egyptian forward came off the bench against Brentford and added City’s third goal in stoppage time, sealing a 3-0 win after a difficult first half.
Despite the goal, Guardiola cares more about the energy Marmoush brings on the pitch. The forward offers directness in games once they open up.
Likewise, the Catalan manager was full of praise for the Egyptian after the game, as a comfortable scoreline also meant an advantage for City if the title race were to be decided by GF.
Pep Guardiola praises Omar Marmoush after Brentford
Marmoush scored his second goal in the Premier League this season against the Bees. He’s only made seven starts but has three assists to his name.
With games coming quickly, Guardiola cannot rely on his usual match-winners to prove decisive. Likewise, Marmoush making the difference was exactly what the City boss expected.
“Look at Omar [Marmoush] today again; I’m so incredibly pleased because he gives us energy, and he’s always a guy who can score goals,” Guardiola said.
Marmoush is producing without needing major minutes
Marmoush has only played 606 Premier League minutes this season. With two goals and three assists, the Egyptian has averaged a direct goal involvement roughly every 121 minutes.
Despite not having the luxury to build rhythm, the forward is already settled into the City’s attacking patterns.
While his contributions aren’t extraordinary, they are enough for Guardiola, who is trying to spread responsibility during a crammed run-in.
Marmoush’s xG numbers back Guardiola’s praise
Marmoush’s goal threat is also clear in his underlying numbers. Among Man City players, only Erling Haaland has averaged more xG per 90 than the Egyptian in the Premier League this season.
While 0.35 xG per 90 is low for a player who’s played more as a striker, he still has averaged 3.86 shots per 90 in the English top-flight this season.
This ranks him in the top 12.2% of strikers in the Premier League despite barely playing this season. He also ranks among the top 24.5% of strikers for shots on target per 90.
