Manchester City extended their winning streak to seven matches across all competitions with a convincing performance at the Etihad Stadium on the evening of 20/12. A brace from Erling Haaland and a goal from Tijjani Reijnders helped the home side overcome West Ham in their final match before the Christmas holiday.

However, Guardiola indicated that the positive result does not fully reflect the issues the team needs to address. "We are happy with the win, but if we play with the ball like this, it won't be enough to be title contenders in March, April, or May", he stated.

Coach Pep Guardiola speaks with Josko Gvardiol after Manchester City's 3-0 victory over West Ham in Premier League matchweek 17 at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England on 20/12/2025. Photo: Reuters

The Spanish coach praised the team's fighting spirit and defensive improvements, but expressed dissatisfaction with the attacking quality. He analyzed, "Our build-up play is still far from what's required. Attacking positions aren't right, and the tempo isn't smooth enough".

The 54-year-old coach candidly shared these thoughts with his players after the match. He said, "I told them I was happy and wished them a Merry Christmas, but this isn't enough. If we don't improve, we won't be able to take another step forward".

Nonetheless, Guardiola remains confident that Manchester City will improve and accelerate in the second half of the season, a characteristic that has become a trademark of the team over the past decade. He affirmed, "If they believe and follow what I say, we will be there. The spirit, intensity, and desire are all present, but many other details must be done better".

Haaland delivered an outstanding performance, scoring two goals and assisting the other. The Norwegian striker's total for the season now stands at 19 goals, the best record in Premier League history before Christmas, equaling Andy Cole (1993-1994), Kevin Phillips (1999-2000), and Luis Suarez (2013-2014).

"I can only say that I am very happy for him. For Erling, scoring goals seems to be never enough", central defender Josko Gvardiol praised his teammate, adding that the entire team is always ready to support the Norwegian forward in continuing to excel.

Tijjani Reijnders celebrates scoring Manchester City's second goal. Photo: Man City

Tijjani Reijnders expressed happiness at scoring his first home goal. The Dutch midfielder also suggested that the team's current run of form reflects Manchester City's growth. He commented, "We must maintain confidence and the right mindset. It shows the squad quality and how the whole team has progressed. But we have to continue".

The victory over West Ham keeps Manchester City in the title chase, just two points behind Arsenal. However, Reijnders declined to discuss the title race, emphasizing that Manchester City needs to focus on each match because the season is still long. The 27-year-old player stated, "We have to keep the pressure on them. Every match we must prove our quality and play without fear. The current run of results is very good, but it's not over yet".

On 27/12, Manchester City will play their final match of the year against Nottingham Forest in Premier League matchweek 18.

Hong Duy (according to Mancity.com)