Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola admitted that the old Manchester City won’t be back this season but promised the fans that they will bounce back stronger in the next season. 

The Sky Blues registered a 1-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday after Erling Haaland scored the only goal in the 12th minute.

The Norwegian striker was supported by Jérémy Doku and Savinho on the flanks with Omar Marmoush in behind. Manchester City were dominant in the first half and Guardiola was sked whether their fine first-half performance was more like his old, all-conquering side after a difficult spell.

Answering the question, the Spaniard shook his head and said: “Never will be this season, the old City. The old City was too good. But we’ll be back.

“We have a young, young team. The three up front is the future. Nico [González], when Rodri comes back, will be the future. And of course, [Abdukodir] Khusanov you are seeing it today. Josko [Gvardiol] is young so yeah, there are certain areas. But, listen, Bernardo [Silva], [Ilkay] Gündogan, Kevin [De Bruyne] the other ones — they are really important for us — but of course it is a question of time.

“We have seen this season, the young players and the new acquisitions maybe the club will do in summertime — in the next transfer window — have to lead this club for the next few years.”

On the other hand, Erling Haaland shared his disappointment after his second-half goal was disallowed by referee Jarred Gillett, who thought the forward handled the ball.

“It’s because he [Gillett] made the decision on the pitch, that it was a free kick,” said Haaland.

“I don’t think it is, it’s clearly a big mistake, but we are humans, we make mistakes. It’s a great goal and I don’t think it’s handball but what can we do, we won, I’m happy.”

Manchester City will next face Plymouth Argyle at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.