Pep Guardiola hailed Mateo Kovacic as "very important" to Manchester City after the Croatian's brace secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Fulham on Saturday. Guardiola's team faced an early setback when Andreas Pereira gave Fulham the lead at the Etihad Stadium. However, Kovacic, stepping in for the injured Rodri, scored before and after halftime to steady City's nerves.
The Croatian midfielder's double was complemented by Jeremy Doku's stunning strike, but Rodrigo Muniz's goal for Fulham ensured a tense finale. City remain undefeated in their first 10 games across all competitions this season, with five wins from seven league matches keeping them in the title race. They are currently in second place, just one point behind leaders Liverpool, after ending a two-match winless streak in the Premier League.
Concerns have arisen over how City will manage without the influential Rodri, who is out for the season with a serious knee injury. Despite initial worries about Fulham's control during certain spells, Guardiola found solace in Kovacic's performance. "I'm very happy he scored two goals. He's not a guy who scores goals. Maybe he saw Rodri, the goals he's scored in that position," Guardiola remarked.
Kovacic's two goals were pivotal, with Guardiola noting, "When they defend with five at the back there is one man free in the 18-yard box and that is Kovacic." The 30-year-old midfielder expressed his joy, saying, "It means a lot because my wife is pregnant, so it was great to get some goals for the little one." City started strongly but were caught off guard in the 26th minute, allowing Pereira to score. However, they rallied with Kovacic's goals and Doku's crucial strike, ensuring a hard-fought victory.
