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Pep Guardiola was thankful that his squad has Erling Haaland netting goals and the Italian goalkeeper stopping them, after a win at Brentford that came with another fitness issue for Rodri.

Haaland's Impressive Form

"We possess an extraordinary forward and goalkeeper," remarked Guardiola, with Haaland's ninth-minute goal turning out to be the decisive factor. His recent performances are reaching the standards of City's 2022-23 season, as the number nine has found the net in nine straight matches. "He's the best," added his manager. "In the year of the treble, he notched – what? – countless goals I think he's integrated now, he's comfortable. He believes now that it's mine."

Donnarumma's Key Contribution

Regarding Donnarumma's important save from Igor Thiago, he stated: "This guy starts to play at the top level at seventeen. After they told me he's 26 it's like he's had decades of football. His composure, his presence. With clubs who are strong you face one piece of action and he succeeded today. A one-on-one situation."

The Manager's Milestone Accomplishment

Guardiola reached the individual milestone of two hundred and fifty English top-flight victories, overtaking Sir Alex Ferguson and Wenger in attaining that number in a record 349 matches. "I will treat them to a nice meal, perhaps not in Manchester, in a warmer place," he remarked of those iconic coaches. "Alternatively in Manchester. It's an honour and a pleasure to be in the league's history. I offer thanks to the club and the players and the backroom team I had. We did it quicker and faster. Now let's go for 250 games more."

Rodri's Injury Concern

On the player's hamstring issue, the most recent problem after a serious knee issue last season, the manager said: "I'd prefer to have Rodri every three days but following a year it happens all the time, it is so demanding. That is why we tried to be gentle, play for an hour or so but it cannot happen more."

Brentford's Response

Keith Andrews, expressed satisfaction that his side got better after City's opening period control to pose a danger until the final whistle. "What we're trying to do is unite a squad together, a club together, after numerous transitions," he said. "In my opinion it's developing. I believe you could see that in the second half performance today against elite opposition."