Pep Guardiola says one of his players is an ‘incredible man’ after seeing Man City beat Southampton

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Manchester City beat off Southampton today and Pep Guardiola has praised one of his players for being so important to the team.

City took an early lead through Erling Haaland but couldn’t find a second goal, despite dominating the ball and creating a number of chances for Haaland.

For manager Pep Guardiola, it was simply about getting another win and after Guardiola praised Russell Martin for his way of playing, the Spaniard will have been relieved to get the win.

Of course, City are having to do the business now without star midfielder Rodri. The Spaniard is missing for the rest of the season, meaning City have to do without.

However, according to Guardiola, Rodri’s current replacement, Mateo Kovacic, is doing more than fine as it stands.

Pep Guardiola praises Mateo Kovacic after Man City beat Southampton

Speaking to the BBC after seeing his side get over the line v Southampton, Guardiola was quick to praise the performance of Kovacic, who is filling in nicely for the missing Rodri.

“He’s a incredible man and player. We miss Rodri a lot this season, he’s such an important player. At the same time we have to continue to do it,” Guardiola said.

Kovacic is a bargain buy for Man City

Kovacic only cost Man City £25m when they signed him from Chelsea and now looking back, it appears a snip.

At times last season, the Croatian midfielder found himself out of the team and having to come in and out when Guardiola needed him.

But now, with Rodri missing, Kovacic is getting his chance to shine regularly and he is showing everyone what he can do.

As Guardiola says here, Kovacic the person stands out as well as the player and in title winning teams, those sorts of personalities are just as important as the ability on display.