Pep Guardiola “will not judge his team on results” after his substitutes helped Manchester City to a 3-1 Champions League win at RB Leipzig.
City did not go three games without a victory during their treble-winning season last year but were in danger of that happening early in 2023/24 following defeats at Newcastle and Wolves.
But Guardiola’s men showed glimpses of their best form, proving too strong for their German opposition.
He said: “I will not judge my team on results.
“Both games [against Newcastle and Wolves] were not the best results, but it is not easy when both teams defend with 10 in the box.
“If you think I will doubt my players, you are wrong. I rely on these guys unconditionally.”
Going his longest streak without scoring, Erling Haaland missed six chances at the Red Bull Arena but goals from Phil Foden and substitutes Julian Alvarez and Jeremy Doku sealed the win for the current European Champions.
Their opponents converted their only shot on target as Leipzig’s Lois Openda cancelled out Foden’s opener in the 48th minute.
However, City proved too strong and equalled the longest European unbeaten run by an English side with 16.
Guardiola added: “We played a fantastic game in all departments. Everyone was perfect.
“The substitutes all came off the bench with smiles on their faces, not complaining because they did not start.”
