After stuttering to a late draw against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola has now delivered some praise.
Guardiola was speaking in his press conference after the game and as well as being frustrated by his own team’s actions, he was impressed by Spurs.
And Pep was particularly impressed with a moment that Brennan Johnson produced late in the game to assist Dejan Kulusevski.
Guardiola said: “It was a good action. Johnson made a good action, made a good delivery for a full-back on the opposite side it is so difficult to defend this action.
“Kulusevski attacked the ball and the second ball they made good high pressing, Julian [Alvarez] should keep the ball and instead pass to Erling [Haaland], but it doesn’t happen.”
Of course, Guardiola would surely have a lot to be impressed about Tottenham’s performance against City.
Beleaguered by injuries, Ange Postecoglou’s side still had a clear and daring identity, which deserved their late point.
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A change in momentum could prove invaluable for Spurs over the festive period, a run of games they won’t want to just ‘cope’ their way through.
Tottenham still have some excellent players available, ones that can win points.
Pep Guardiola very impressed with Tottenham’s Brennan Johnson against City
Guardiola wasn’t alone in his applause, captain Son Heung-Min also reserved special praise for the winger after the game.
And although the Spurs fans will enjoy their point, they must regret that their side could not head to the Etihad at full strength.
The game would be an excellent test for a side including the likes of James Maddison, Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero.
It is quite remarkable to remember that the side flying high, before a chaotic night against Chelsea, was only months into their project.
Postecoglou’s side gelled so well, so quickly.
And that certainly bodes well with a busy January transfer window ahead.
Pep Guardiola was right to praise this Tottenham side, one that didn’t wave its philosophy against Man City.
And although some players did struggle to perform, the collective mission was still so clear.