Jeremy Doku receives subtle snub from Pep Guardiola despite five-star Liverpool display | OneFootball

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola had time to hand out some constructive criticism of Jeremy Doku despite the Belgian’s starring role in a 3-0 win over Liverpool.

The victory marked Guardiola’s 1,000th game as a manager and one of City’s most complete performances of the campaign so far, as they brushed aside the reigning Premier League champions in dominant fashion at the Etihad Stadium.

Erling Haaland’s header, a deflected effort from Nico Gonzalez, and a sublime curling strike from Jeremy Doku secured all three points and trimmed Arsenal’s lead at the top of the division to just four points.

While Haaland’s goal-scoring consistency grabbed its usual attention, it was Doku who dazzled the most on the day, constantly tormenting Liverpool’s right-hand side, particularly young, highly-rated full-back Conor Bradley.

The Belgian winger’s directness, confidence, and flair were central to Manchester City’s attacking rhythm, giving supporters a glimpse of the electric form he displayed somewhat inconsistently during his time at the club so far.

However, speaking to reporters during his post-match press conference, Pep Guardiola insisted that despite Jeremy Doku’s remarkable abilities in various departments, the Belgian is unlikely to establish himself as a leading providing of goals himself.

“I think never he’ll be a top, top scorer, to be honest,” Guardiola admitted. “But he’s demanding himself to be better, he listens, and he has special attributes with dribbles.”

The Manchester City boss continued, “Conor [Bradley] – the right-back of Liverpool – I’m really, really impressed! Pep Lijnders told me a thousand incredibly good things about that guy, he can do everything.

“I know the game against [Real] Madrid how good [he was] against Vinicius – he’s wow, right? And he [Doku] handled it! He was aggressive, quick without the ball, and we tried to help him. Listen, he played an outstanding game!”

Jeremy Doku has become one of Manchester City’s most unpredictable attacking outlets, but Pep Guardiola’s comments hint at his belief that consistency and decision-making in the final third remain the next step in his development.

After an injury-interrupted campaign last term, Doku’s return to full fitness has been a welcome boost to Manchester City’s title pursuit. His partnership with Erling Haaland is beginning to show real chemistry, with the Belgian’s ability to drag defenders out of position opening up crucial spaces for the Norwegian to exploit.

Looking ahead, Pep Guardiola’s words may prove pivotal motivation for Jeremy Doku. The winger’s raw ability is undeniable, and if he can combine that with improved composure in front of goal, City may soon have yet another world-class attacking weapon to rely upon.