This archive report was first published on 23 October 2019.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised Raheem Sterling's desire to improve after the England star scored a hat-trick in 11 minutes in the 5-1 win over Atalanta on October 23, 2019.
Guardiola said Sterling's physicality and ability to play both sides of the pitch make him an extraordinary player, and he believes the 25-year-old has the desire to get even better.
“How much better he can become depends on him. That desire to get better and I think he has that desire to get better,” Guardiola said.
Guardiola also praised Sterling's contribution to the team, saying: “I say all credit is for him, all the credit is for him. He’s a guy whose physicality is incredible. The day after a game, he could play another game. He can play both sides, he’s fast, defensively he helps us a lot, he’s an extraordinary player.”
However, the win was marred by Phil Foden's first red card of his career, which Guardiola felt was harsh. He said Foden will learn from the experience and that the 19-year-old's fine display was overshadowed by the red card.
Guardiola also revealed that Rodri will be out for at least 10 days with a hamstring injury, but he is pleased that City are just one win away from the last 16 in the Champions League.
