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The City boss expressed gratitude that his team has the Norwegian striker scoring and Gianluigi Donnarumma stopping them, following a victory at Brentford that came with another fitness issue for the midfielder.

The Striker's Stunning Performance

"I have an extraordinary forward and goalkeeper," remarked Guardiola, with Haaland's early goal proving the winning one. His current form are approaching the levels of City's treble-winning season, as the number nine has scored in 9 straight matches. "He's the top," added his boss. "During the season of the treble, he notched – what? – countless times? I think he's part of the club now, he's comfortable. He feels now that this is his home."

Donnarumma's Crucial Contribution

On the goalkeeper's important save from the opponent, Guardiola said: "He began to play at the top level at 17. When I learned he's 26 it's like he's had centuries playing football. His calmness, his aura. Against teams who play good you face a single chance and he succeeded today. A one-on-one situation."

Guardiola's Landmark Accomplishment

Pep reached the personal landmark of 250 Premier League victories, surpassing Ferguson and Arsène Wenger in attaining that total in a record-breaking 349 games. "I'll invite them to a nice meal, maybe elsewhere, in a warmer place," he remarked of those legendary coaches. "Alternatively in the city. It's an honor and a pleasure to be part of Premier League history. I say thanks to the club and the squad and the backroom team I had. We achieved it quicker and faster. Next we aim for 250 games more."

Rodri's Fitness Concern

On Rodri's hamstring issue, the latest problem after a cruciate knee injury previously, Guardiola said: "I'd prefer to have him frequently but after one year it happens constantly, it is so demanding. That is why we tried to be cautious, use him for 60-65 minutes but it can't continue."

Brentford's Response

Keith Andrews, was pleased that his team improved after City's first-half control to threaten until the full-time signal. "What we're trying to do is unite a team together, a organization united, after numerous changes," he said. "In my opinion it's growing. I think you could see that in the second half showing today against top-level rivals."