The striker returned to the starting XI for City’s triumph over Bournemouth and although the 21-year-old did not find the net, his manager was pleased with the youngster’s overall contribution.
While Raheem Sterling and Man of the Match Leroy Sane stole the show, Guardiola spoke highly of Gabriel Jesus’ display and told press he sees potential for further improvement.
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“He just needs to relax,” declared Guardiola. “I love his work ethic.
“I said to him: the work out on the pitch will sustain him. He helps us a lot. I am delighted.
“He is young and he will improve because he has a desire to improve. That is important.
“I don’t agree with the suggestion he did not make a good performance. Yes, strikers are judged on goals but we needed his runs – he made a thousand million runs in behind!
“For example, Sterling likes to drop to play with David Silva. In that situation, we need a specific quality – a run from Gabriel.
“He will be so important.”
Guardiola also asserted rotation will be key over the coming weeks, as City enter what the Catalan described as ‘the meat of the season’.
The Blues’ win over Bournemouth kicked off a packed festive calendar – our first of nine December fixtures – in which the manager made five changes to the squad.
The boss insisted every single player is ready to step up when required, as he was asked how he intends to keep the squad fresh.
“To eat a lot, sleep, drink a lot (in a good way!) and prepare,” he stated.
“We will tell them what is going to happen against Watford. We have to push everybody and we will see when it comes to the decision of the game.
“We have a lot of games and people start to be tired but it is what it is. Everybody has to do their best.
“Many other opponents play nine games too Why would we complain?!”
