Guardiola hails “impressive” City performance as Haaland nets sixth hat-trick of the season

Pep Guardiola, the esteemed Manchester City manager, spoke to the media after his team’s impressive 6-0 victory over Burnley in the FA Cup quarter-finals at Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola praised his team’s performance and reflected on the game’s highlights. “It’s been a good month with Newcastle, Leipzig, Crystal Palace, and today it was a good one, a tough game,” Guardiola said. “They went man for man with only [goalkeeper] Stefan Ortega free.”

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Manchester City’s attacking prowess was on full display as they scored six goals against Burnley, with Erling Haaland once again leading the way with his sixth hat-trick of the season. Guardiola attributed the team’s success to playing more directly to Haaland and the wingers in the second half.

Erling Haaland celebrating his second goal against Burnley as he thanks Foden for the assist

“We had to play more direct to Erling [Haaland] and the wingers,” he said. “Second half was much better. I was really impressed.”

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Despite the scoreline, Guardiola praised Burnley for their tenacity and grit. He acknowledged that Burnley’s current form in the Championship suggests that they will be a formidable opponent in the Premier League next season.

Pep Guardiola welcomes City legend Vincent Kompany at the Etihad Stadium with a handshake

“It’s not a surprise to see what Burnley are doing in the Championship. Next season we will face them [in the Premier League],” Guardiola said.

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Manchester City’s win guarantees them a date at Wembley next month for the FA Cup semi-finals, and Guardiola will be looking to add another trophy to his already impressive collection. With Haaland’s exceptional form and the team’s attacking prowess on display, Manchester City looks like a formidable opponent for any team in the competition.