Pep Guardiola explains what is ‘exceptional’ about the way Russell Martin’s Southampton play
Erling Haaland scored another goal today as Manchester City narrowly defeated Southampton, continuing their excellent play.
It was ultimately just enough as Haaland beat his marker to slam past Aaron Ramsdale and into the net’s roof in five minutes.
Haaland could have scored more goals on a different day, but ultimately he only managed to score one.
The most essential thing for City was to win, whereas Southampton, despite a strong showing, were yet to win in the Premier League.
However, while Southampton remain winless, manager Russell Martin has been paid the ultimate compliment as Pep Guardiola admitted he’ll very much be learning from the Saints’ boss and his tactics.
Pep Guardiola praises ‘exceptional’ Southampton under Russell Martin
In an interview with the BBC following his team’s 1-0 comeback, Guardiola acknowledged that he was so impressed by Russell Martin that he would take note of his Saints team’s performance.
“Today, Southampton’s outstanding play with the ball, goalie, and movement was more important than their deep defence. As a manager, this is a good game to learn. They performed quite well, so I will be learning a lot from Russell. We acknowledged that they performed incredibly well and were modest,” Guardiola remarked.
“The fact that Southampton and Wolves are at the bottom of the table after their last two games indicates how difficult the Premier table is. They performed admirably. Even though they didn’t create many opportunities, they made a fantastic attempt to get the ball from us. Although we produced opportunities that we were unable to convert, the outcome was positive.
“The build-up is outstanding. They have a good rapport with the striker, and everything makes sense. We tried it today, and I knew based on what others had told me about Russell [Martin]. They were good players, not poor ones. You have to accept it when a team performs at that level.
Southampton still need to do more
Even while this is a kind gesture from Guardiola and something Martin can personally take away, Southampton is still having trouble scoring points.
Even while Martin keeps receiving accolades, Southampton’s board will find their patience increasingly put to the test over the season if results don’t materialise.
Ultimately, football is a results-driven sport, so even though Martin may play the way he wants, it won’t matter much if it doesn’t result in victories.
Southampton must therefore begin to gain points. Moreover, rapidly.
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