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Pep Guardiola expressed gratitude that his squad boasts the Norwegian striker netting goals and Gianluigi Donnarumma stopping them, following a victory at Brentford's ground that came at the cost of another fitness issue for Rodri.

The Striker's Impressive Performance

"We possess an amazing forward and keeper," stated the coach, with the forward's early strike turning out to be the decisive factor. Haaland's recent performances are reaching the standards of the team's 2022-23 campaign, as the number nine has scored in 9 straight games. "He is the best," added his boss. "In the season of the three trophies, he notched – what? – countless goals I think he's integrated now, he's settled. He believes now that it's mine."

Donnarumma's Key Intervention

Regarding the goalkeeper's important stop from the opponent, he said: "He starts to perform at the highest level at seventeen. After they told me he's 26 it's like he's had centuries playing football. His composure, his aura. Against teams who are strong you face a single chance and he succeeded today. One against one."

The Manager's Landmark Accomplishment

Guardiola achieved the individual milestone of 250 English top-flight victories, surpassing Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger in reaching that number in a record three hundred and forty-nine games. "I will invite them to a nice meal, perhaps not in Manchester, somewhere sunnier," he remarked of those legendary coaches. "Or in Manchester. It is an honour and a pleasure to be in Premier League history. I offer thank you to the team and the players and the staff I had. We did it quicker and sooner. Now let's go for 250 matches."

Rodri's Fitness Concern

Regarding Rodri's muscle problem, the most recent problem after a cruciate knee injury last season, Guardiola commented: "I would love to have Rodri every three days but following a year it occurs all the time, it is very taxing. This is why we tried to be cautious, use him for an hour or so but it cannot happen more."

Brentford's Reaction

Brentford's manager, was pleased that his team improved after City's first-half control to threaten until the full-time whistle. "Our aim to do is unite a squad as one, a organization united, after so many changes," he said. "I think it's growing. I think you could observe that in the later stages showing today against top-level opposition."