The City boss was delighted with the way his team controlled the game against the Clarets and says it was the ideal preparation for the Manchester derby and a hectic December schedule
“They were really good goals,” said Pep.
“The first one was excellent and the second one was the result of an incredible cross and great finish. Riyad and Rodri’s goals, too.
“We need Gabriel Jesus. The strikers are there to score goals. We need him.
“His effort and commitment is always there. He’s very important for us.
“It is not easy to replace Sergio, but the team doesn’t have doubts about him.
“Strikers score sometimes, sometimes not. We need the quality of player up front to make the difference.
“I’m so glad for him. He is a fighter. I want him to try and be aggressive in this position.
“It is important to have the mentality. No doubts about the quality. I’m so optimistic about what he can do, he scored two exceptional goals.”
The boss was also thrilled with the performance of Rodri, adding: “Rodri was incredible and was in his position. Offensive, defensive in transition he was so good.
“He has a picture of where players are in his head. With his physicality, he is perfect.
“He is so young. The way he celebrated - he lives his profession. He’s a guy who wants to learn, to listen. In training, he is ready. We can always count on him.
“Our level was so good for most of the game. I don’t have the feeling we play badly in every game.
“Sometimes, you need something after back to back titles. You need time after the holidays.
“The level we played at Newcastle was good, but we drew. In general, I am satisfied, and they know it.
“Winning here it is not easy. We played our way. It was important.
“Like everybody says, we are out of the title race with no chance of winning.
“Liverpool never lose so we are thinking about ourselves and our next game - how many games we have to win to be close.
“Now we prepare for the derby on Saturday, hopefully our fans can help us to make a good game. December is a crazy month!”
