Pep Guardiola’s side crashed out in the third round to Newcastle United (Picture: Getty)
Pep Guardiola says Manchester City’s performance was ‘incredible’ despite their shock 1-0 Carabao Cup exit to Newcastle United in the third round.
Alexander Isak scored the only goal of the match as Newcastle manager Eddie Howe registered his first-ever win over Guardiola.
City dominated possession but only managed two shots on target with Newcastle managing double that total and also ranking higher for expected goals.
But Guardiola refused to criticise last season’s treble winners as he told Sky Sports: ‘We played an incredible game.
‘They increased after the break and were more aggressive. They scored a goal.
‘Last season we were out against Southampton and not there but tonight we were. Congratulations to Newcastle.
‘Yeah, it was a tight game and the players who played played really good. It is football.
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‘The way we played in the first half and second half was amazing. But they played aggressive to win the game.
‘I leave comfortable with how we played, no injuries and minutes for Mateo [Kovacic] and Jack [Grealish].’
Guardiola also hailed youngster Oscar Bobb for his ‘brilliant performance’ and felt that Kalvin Phillips was ‘really good’ following the defeat at St James’ Park.
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