Doku, a summer arrival from Stade Rennais, was in inspired form at the Etihad, with his pace and trickery causing no end of the problems for the visitors.
The Belgian international it was whose assist set up Julian Alvarez for City’s opener with Erling Haaland then adding a second goal in a fine first half display.
Though Ansu Fati reduced the arrears late on, City held firm to record a seventh league of the season to regain top spot in the Premier League.
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And as he reflected on a hard fought City win, the boss was keen to praise Doku’s impact and influence since his arrival.
“I am really pleased for his impact since he came into us,” Guardiola declared.
“After the West Ham game he didn’t play one or two (games) because of doubts he has to play game, game, game and he is not used to it.
“He is an exceptional winger.
“Jeremy is so smart in defensive areas and after, he has the quality.
“He got to the byline and got us the first goal and there were many actions.
“It’s the start of many years for him in this house.”
The City boss also spoke about his thinking in terms of his team selection and decision to begin with Doku before bringing on Jack Grealish in his place later in the game.
The boss said both players had specific qualities which were best utilized against specific opponents depending on the needs of team.
“Jeremy can play on the right perfectly. Left he is not used to,” Pep added.
“Years ago, it was left player on left and right on right side. Now it’s difficult to find.
“Jack is more controlled. He doesn’t have the one-v-one speed.
“Today I doubt a lot the line-up because the game would have more transitions. They are man to man and aggressive so we will lose more than usual to make more transition.
“I thought Phil and Jeremy with their pace could help us. I thought a lot that Mateo (Kovacic) and Matheus (Nunes) could help us but Bernardo (Silva) with the way we want to press is so important.”
