“‘Top-class’ – Pep Guardiola lauds Liverpool star despite struggling against Man City”

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola heaped praise on one of Liverpool’s players despite their 3-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium.

City secured a comfortable win thanks to goals from Erling Haaland, Nico Gonzalez, and Jeremy Doku, moving back into second place in the Premier League, just four points behind Arsenal.

The victory was a statement for Guardiola and his squad, marking the Spanish manager’s 1000th career game with a perfect result.

Doku, operating on City’s left wing against Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley, was the standout performer.

Bradley had recently impressed by neutralizing Vinicius Junior when Real Madrid visited Anfield last week. However, against Doku, the Liverpool youngster struggled to cope, as the Belgian winger produced arguably his best performance for City.

Despite Doku causing problems for Liverpool, Guardiola still praised Bradley after the match.

“[Doku] had an outstanding game against one of the best full-backs in the Premier League,” Guardiola told Metro. “He is so quick. I saw his performance against Vinicius Junior on Tuesday.”

According to Sky Sports, Doku earned the highest rating of any player on the pitch at the Etihad on Sunday, receiving a 9/10 for his performance.

The Belgian winger has always shown potential, but this season he has added more end product and intelligence to his movement and passing. With three goals and four assists so far, Doku is beginning to justify Manchester City’s decision to sign him.