Manchester City narrowly defeated Watford 2-1 in the Third Round of the Carabao Cup.
Goals from Jeremy Doku and Matheus Nunes meant Tom Ince’s stunning strike was a mere consolation goal against City.
However, Pep Guardiola’s men have accomplished the challenge of playing a game after a one-day break from their 2-2 draw against Arsenal in solid, if not spectacular fashion.
Guardiola made nine changes to the team that started in his side’s previous contest at the Etihad Stadium.
Youngsters such as Kaden Braithwaite, James McAtee and Nico O’Reilly were handed starts as well as a fringe player like Nunes.
Considering Manchester City are yet to win the Carabao Cup since 2021, they would be looking to win the competition for the fifth time under Pep Guardiola’s reign.
Why Guardiola was frustrated by Man City star in 2-1 win against Watford
Guardiola would have been determined to witness his City side put in a dominant performance on Tuesday night.
For much of the clash, the hosts looked in cruise control.
But even so, Manchester City did not boss proceedings how one would have expected when assessing both team sheets.
After Ince’s goal, Watford put the Sky Blues under pressure in search of a late equaliser.
But Tom Cleverley’s side ultimately departed the Etihad Stadium exiting the Carabao Cup.
One City player seemed to frustrate Guardiola during his side’s latest outing as well.
Journalist Joe Bray has revealed on X that during the first half, Pep Guardiola was getting “wound up” by Nunes’ decision-making against Watford.
The £54 million man was a bit sloppy in possession at times, with his first touch and weight of pass not being precise enough in certain moments.
Man City midfielder Matheus Nunes redeemed himself
However, Nunes redeemed himself by scoring a brilliant goal to open his account in a Manchester City shirt.
The Portuguese international’s left-footed strike was struck with power and precision after a sumptous piece of interplay between Rico Lewis and McAtee.
Nunes could have got on the scoresheet once again but his effort from close range was denied.
The former Wolves midfielder was often tenacious and almost created a golden opportunity for McAtee to tap in home.
Nunes’ performance certainly improved in the second half, which would have satisfied Guardiola.
