Pep Guardiola praised Manchester City’s “huge personality” after coming from behind to beat Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
Bernardo Silva put the visitors ahead in the first half, but a pair of superb strikes from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon in quick succession gave the Magpies the lead heading into the break.
The introduction of Kevin De Bruyne in the second half proved pivotal as the Belgian scored the equaliser before providing a brilliant assist for Oscar Bobb’s late winner.
“That was really good, sometimes it is better winning that way for the team, for everything,” he told BBC Match of the Day.
“Incredible team the way we played with a huge personality. They showed me they want to be there, to fight until the end that they want to retain the title.”
De Bruyne was making his first appearance for Man City since suffering an injury on the opening day of the Premier League season, but Guardiola revealed he was “upset” with the 32-year-old after missing a free kick with his first touch of the game.
He said: “I am a little bit upset and grumpy with him because he didn’t score from the free-kick!
“When opponents are more tired, Kevin and Oscar provide another pace at the end.
“Oscar’s was a fantastic goal for the control. We were really impressed in pre-season, I knew from information for the second team he was special.
“When Kevin has the ball and we have runners, Kevin is unique in the world but the finish by Oscar, I am so, so happy for him.”
