Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola praises Conor Bradley, even after the youngster endured a challenging evening in City’s commanding 3-0 Premier League win at the Etihad Stadium.
The Sky Blues looked back to their clinical best, as goals from Erling Haaland, Nico González, and Jeremy Doku secured all three points.
The result lifted City back into second place, closing the gap to leaders Arsenal to just four points.
It also marked a fitting way for Guardiola to celebrate his 1,000th game as a manager — a milestone that came with both dominance and composure from his side.
It was a statement victory for the Cityzens, who looked sharp and ruthless from start to finish.
The attacking trio of Haaland, González, and Doku consistently caused problems for Liverpool’s backline, but it was Doku’s electrifying performance on the left wing that stood out most.
Doku, who joined Manchester City from Rennes a few years ago, delivered arguably his finest display in a City shirt so far.
His direct running, sharp dribbling, and constant movement tore through Liverpool’s defensive structure.
Tasked with marking him was 20-year-old right-back Conor Bradley — a player who had earned widespread plaudits only days earlier for completely shutting down Vinícius Júnior during Liverpool’s Champions League clash against Real Madrid at Anfield.
But this time, the challenge was different. Doku’s pace and unpredictable style proved too much for Bradley, who found himself repeatedly tested and isolated down the flank.
Every time the Belgian picked up the ball, he looked capable of creating something dangerous — and often did.
According to Sky Sports, Doku was rated the best player on the pitch, ahead of every other participant in the high-intensity contest.
His contribution was not just limited to flair; his decision-making and composure in the final third have notably improved this season.
With three goals and four assists so far, the 22-year-old is beginning to show why City were so keen to bring him into Guardiola’s system.
Despite being the one most tormented by Doku’s brilliance, Pep Guardiola praises Conor Bradley after the match.
Guardiola, who is often meticulous in analysing opposition players, was quick to point out that the Liverpool youngster remains a standout defender — one of the most promising full-backs in the Premier League.
“[Doku] had an outstanding game against one of the best full-backs in the Premier League,” Guardiola said after the match, as reported by Metro.
“[Bradley] is so quick, I saw his game against Vinícius Júnior [vs Real Madrid on Tuesday].”
It was a gracious moment from the City manager, who chose to acknowledge both the quality of his own player and the potential of his opponent.
Guardiola’s words underlined a wider truth about Bradley’s growing reputation.
Meanwhile, Doku’s performance was a reminder of the evolution Guardiola continues to oversee.
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Since arriving at City, the young winger has not only showcased his speed and dribbling but has also begun to add the tactical discipline demanded by his manager.
His ability to stretch defences, create space, and make smarter choices in possession has transformed him from a raw talent into a genuine weapon in City’s attacking arsenal.
Also, Haaland’s predatory instinct was on display once again as he opened the scoring, calmly finishing from close range after sustained pressure.
The Norwegian striker who has been in great form this season will hope to continue scoring goals after the International break and probably find the back of the net for his country during the two-week break.
