Guardiola thrilled by Doku and Foden form

Both shone in Sunday’s 3-0 win over Manchester United, with a combined goal involvement of three goals, and Foden claimed an assist and Doku scored a superb second in our impressive 2-0 win over Napoli.

“The goals [we scored] depend on the talent,” said Guardiola.

“Of course we have one more man in the middle. Phil in that position is incredible. It’s quite similar the movement he has done to Jeremy with Erling against United.

“Jeremy in that position one on one against central defender over five metres, he is the fastest player and unstoppable. Over longer distances he may suffer a lot, but over short spaces, how fast he is!

“Always I encourage him to go and prove it and he made an incredible finish at the end.”

The Blues made the perfect start to the league phase of the Champions League after last season’s difficulties.

And the boss was especially pleased his side overcame a defensively tough opponent thanks to second half goals from Erling Haaland and Doku.

“The Italian teams with 10 men can defend every block,” said Pep.

“How aggressive they are, I faced that many times in my career. We are really pleased.

“We could be more anxious, but it was the opposite and when we unlocked the door it was easier.

“I’m really pleased because I know how good Napoli are and how difficult Conte’s teams are to beat. I know from my past.”

Yet again one of the highlights of the game was the understanding between Haaland and Foden.

The Norwegian, who became the fastest player ever to reach 50 goals in the Champions League, cleverly nodded the ball over the Napoli keeper from Foden’s lofted pass – and Guardiola is delighted to see the pair being so productive.

“You cannot imagine how much we missed him - this is the Phil we know when he played close to Haaland and was the best player in the Premier League,” said Pep.

“Last year he could not be there. His sense of danger close to the box. We are so happy, as I know he is happy and has joy - and when his life is fine, the rest is natural and his incredible talent comes along.”

Asked if he’d spoken to Foden to help him find his form again, Guardiola said: “Not put pressure on him. Everyone in our life we need to be loved.

“Some people are sensitive, and he is a guy who needs to feel embraced. With me, with the club. After that he is the player that he is.”