Pep Guardiola names two unsung heroes for Man City in Manchester United rout

Pep Guardiola singled out two Manchester City players who played key roles in the derby victory over Manchester United, while also praising a hidden aspect of Kevin De Bruyne's season.

City were 6-3 winners against United on Sunday, with Erling Haaland scoring a third hat-trick for the club in just eight Premier League appearances, and Phil Foden also taking home a match ball with a first career hat-trick.

Naturally, the post-match questioning was all around Haaland, but Guardiola was keen to shine a light on both Jack Grealish and Ilkay Gundogan, who allowed their attacking teammates to shine.

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Grealish was brilliant even though he didn't trouble the scoresheet, playing roles in the build-up of many City moves to keep United penned back in their own half. Gundogan, who replaced the injured Rodri in holding midfield, was also influential in keeping possession for City in a game they dominated.

So when Guardiola was asked about Haaland's impact, he picked out both players for praise, telling Viaplay: "Not just him. Look at Jack Grealish today, how good he played. Kevin, and Gundogan - come back in his position as holding midfielder that he started years ago.

"They're humble and they follow us, said 'okay let's try to go and do it again after four or five years of success'. I'm very pleased. It's not about winning or losing, of course we want to win all the time. The way in the two or three days how they train, how they focus. It's good."

Guardiola also identified a trait in De Bruyne, who he says has allowed Haaland to take the role as City's biggest star without any complaints.

He explained: "It is a team sport. I understand the