Manchester City returned to winning ways in emphatic style with a dominant 4-0 victory over Newcastle, and while Omar Marmoush stole the headlines with a stunning 15-minute hat-trick, it was Nico Gonzalez’s performance that truly impressed Pep Guardiola.
Gonzalez, who joined City from Porto for £50 million on deadline day, made his Premier League debut in the heart of midfield alongside Ilkay Gundogan.
His presence was immediately felt, with Guardiola drawing comparisons between the 23-year-old and the injured Rodri.
“I think the presence of Nico helped us a lot,” Guardiola said post-match. “Out of 10 balls, the 50-50s, he wins seven and you can run. When you lose seven, they will run.
“I have the feeling the club bought an incredible player for the future, in terms of mentality. He’s so young, 23, like a mini-Rodri. That’s a big compliment – but there’s this feeling for the big presence, the duels.
“Of course, he’s miles away from Rodri. Rodri is the best. But I had the feeling, everyone had the feeling, that he’s going to help us in the last part of the season.”
While Gonzalez impressed in midfield, it was Marmoush who delivered the most decisive impact. The Egyptian forward netted a rapid hat-trick, showcasing his clinical finishing ability. Guardiola admitted that a performance like this was only a matter of time.
“Three goals, we knew it – in Germany at Frankfurt he made good numbers,” Guardiola said. “Against Leyton Orient he had three clear chances and couldn’t score, but we knew sooner or later it would come.
“He likes to attack the space and he helps us play with more time. When we play like we did today, everyone is better – even the manager!”
With a quick turnaround, City now shift their attention to a crucial Champions League clash with Real Madrid, where they will need to overturn a one-goal deficit at the Bernabeu.
If Gonzalez and Marmoush can carry their form into that fixture, Guardiola’s side might just have the edge they need.