Guardiola Explains Why Jérémy Doku Can Reach Level of Vinícius Júnior and Lamine Yamal
Pep Guardiola has expressed complete confidence that Jérémy Doku can develop into one of the finest wingers in world football, comparing his potential to stars such as Vinícius Júnior and Lamine Yamal.
Pep Guardiola says Jeremy Doku can become one of the world’s best wingers after his recent scoring run for Manchester City.
The Belgian winger has delivered an impressive run of form for Manchester City at a crucial stage of the season, scoring in three consecutive matches as the battle for the Premier League title intensifies.
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Following Doku’s influential display in Manchester City’s 3-0 victory over Brentford, Guardiola was asked whether the Belgian could eventually perform at the same level as Vinicius Junior and Lamine Yamal.
"Yeah, for sure," said Guardiola. "And always accept being pushed. Always accept that. And that is so nice. We are really pleased. Now he is winning games. But he has always been really, really good."
The City manager also joked that successful performances are usually credited to coaches, while poor displays are blamed on the players.
Although Doku’s speed, dribbling ability and attacking threat have consistently stood out, Guardiola explained that mentality is what separates top-level talent from genuine world-class players.
"It depends on your mentality," Guardiola explained. "I want to become one of the best wingers in the world. Otherwise, you're in a comfort zone and you say, 'No, it's fine, it's fine.' Always I've been, Jeremy, dribbles and whatever. I always try. But I say, no, I want to become one of the best of the best. That is when you reach that level."
Doku has become one of City’s biggest attacking weapons in recent matches, regularly causing problems for opposition defenders with his direct style and confidence on the ball.
Despite his recent goalscoring streak, Doku insisted his overall approach to the game has not changed. The winger scored the opening goal against Brentford after also finding the net against Everton and Southampton.
"I'm an instinct player. Today it's working out. I scored some goals, I've always played with instinct but now the goals are coming. I haven't been a different player," Doku explained after the match.
The 23-year-old added that his strike came naturally after spotting space to shoot, comparing it to his earlier goal against Everton.
Manchester City’s win over Brentford kept the pressure on Arsenal in the Premier League title race. Guardiola’s team remains determined to avoid mistakes during the closing stages of the campaign.
Doku’s recent form has provided City with a major attacking boost, particularly against teams defending deep against Guardiola’s side.
City will next face Crystal Palace before travelling to play AFC Bournemouth and then hosting Aston Villa on the final day of the season.
"Three games left and we go for it," the Spaniard said about the title race. "It has been a long time since the Arsenal game. I love to play at home, hopefully we can put pressure on Arsenal. Win our games and do what we have to do."
