Guardiola hails January signing Marmoush's impact at Man City

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised January signing Omar Marmoush for his key role in the team's resurgence as the Egyptian striker scored his seventh goal of the season during City's 5-2 comeback win over Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium.

“The numbers are really good. He arrived in the middle of the season and in a moment when we were not good. That is a big credit,” Guardiola said post-match. Marmoush's equaliser before half-time helped the Sky Blues come from 2-0 down in the opening half-hour.

Guardiola highlighted Marmoush's ability to adapt to City's demanding style of play. “Sometimes when you come when everything is fluid and fine, it’s easy to adapt. But coming when the team is not playing good, that is a big credit. When a team likes to get the ball, he makes runs and understands the intensity you have to play,” he claimed. 

The Egyptian player had more chances, including some one-on-ones that Guardiola believes could have led to more goals. The Etihad Stadium side's win lifted them to fourth in the Premier League table, keeping their Champions League hopes alive amid fierce competition from Chelsea and Newcastle United. Guardiola insisted such performances are vital to secure a European place next season.