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Pep Guardiola expressed gratitude that his team has Erling Haaland scoring and the Italian goalkeeper stopping them, after a victory at Brentford that came with another fitness issue for the midfielder.

The Striker's Remarkable Form

"We possess an extraordinary forward and goalkeeper," stated the coach, with Haaland's ninth-minute goal turning out to be the decisive one. His recent performances are approaching the levels of City's 2022-23 campaign, as the number nine has found the net in nine straight games. "He's the best," commented his manager. "In the season of the three trophies, he notched – what? – 50 million goals I think he's part of the club now, he's comfortable. He feels now that this is his home."

Donnarumma's Vital Contribution

Regarding the goalkeeper's important save from Igor Thiago, Guardiola stated: "This guy began to play at the highest level at 17. After I learned he's 26 it's like he's had decades playing football. His calmness, his presence. With clubs who play good you get a single chance and he succeeded today. A one-on-one situation."

The Manager's Landmark Achievement

Guardiola achieved the individual landmark of 250 Premier League victories, surpassing Sir Alex Ferguson and Wenger in reaching that number in a record-breaking three hundred and forty-nine games. "I will treat them to a good dinner, maybe elsewhere, in a warmer place," he said of those legendary managers. "Alternatively in Manchester. It is an honour and a pleasure to be part of the league's history. I say thanks to the club and the squad and the backroom team I worked with. We achieved it quicker and sooner. Now we aim for another 250 games more."

Rodri's Fitness Setback

On Rodri's hamstring issue, the latest problem after a serious knee issue previously, Guardiola said: "I would love to have Rodri every three days but after one year it occurs all the time, it is very taxing. This is why we tried to be gentle, use him for 60-65 minutes but it cannot happen more."

The Opponent's Response

Keith Andrews, expressed satisfaction that his team improved after City's first-half dominance to threaten until the final whistle. "Our aim to do is bring a team together, a club together, after so many changes," he said. "In my opinion it's developing. I think you could see that in the later stages performance today against elite rivals."