- Pep Guardiola has praised Jeremy Doku
- Doku helped City against Brentford
- The Belgian scored another crucial goal
Manchester City needed patience, control and another decisive second-half moment to keep the Premier League title race alive.
Pep Guardiola’s side eventually came through with a 3-0 win over Brentford at the Etihad Stadium. However, the scoreline did not tell the whole story.
City were frustrated for long spells before Jeremy Doku opened the scoring. Then Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush added the goals that moved Guardiola’s side to within two points of Arsenal.
The result means City have done their part for now, but their title hopes still depend on the Gunners dropping points. Mikel Arteta’s side face West Ham today as they travel East for a derby day in London.
Pep Guardiola praises Jeremy Doku after Man City win
Likewise, Guardiola was asked about Doku’s impact after the Brentford game. The Belgian had also scored a late equaliser against Everton, which helped City win at least one point in Liverpool.
The Catalan manager made it clear that he sees Doku’s recent influence as part of a wider season-long development.
“All season, he has been outstanding. What a player he has become. I’m so happy for him,” Guardiola told beIN Sports.
He added, “Those two goals, they were both very similar. To have the composure to do that, they could be season-defining moments.”
Brentford made City work hard, and Guardiola admitted after the game that his side needed more bodies in the box after the first half.
Doku’s numbers back Guardiola’s praise
Doku has scored five goals and five assists for the Sky Blues in 18 league starts this season. With an xG of just 2.54, the 23-year-old has scored almost twice as many goals as expected.
This underlines his shot quality and the ability to score goals from unconventional positions and angles. For City, who sometimes fail to convert, Doku has served as the icebreaker in recent games.
60% of the winger’s goal involvement has come from his last five games. Nevertheless, Guardiola will be hoping to see more of the Belgian international in the upcoming clashes.
Doku’s timing could be vital for City
Doku’s improvement has arrived at an ideal time for Guardiola. City are still chasing Arsenal, and with only three league games remaining, there is little room for frustrating draws.
The Belgian’s form can help City do their part when they have lost control of the title race. A large goal difference will also be important, as a draw on points will be decided by GD.
The Citizens have scored more goals than Arsenal this season. Likewise, they’ll be hoping for the Gunners to drop points and leave them behind on all fronts.
