Guardiola pointed to his desire to play, even when exhausted as evidence that his hunger had returned.
England International looked somewhat slower last season compared to his excellent form in 2023/24.
Last season, the 25-year-old won 13 and did not register any goals between January and May 2025.
However, this season he has scored two assists and two goals in five appearances so far, one of whom has won the EFL Cup at Huddersfield mid-week.
“Phil took responsibility when he was 17 and started training with us. The biggest example was Arsenal when we ran a lot and parked the bus before a match with Burnley at Etihad on a Saturday afternoon.”
“At that moment, Phil said, ‘I want to play again.’ That’s what happened when he wanted to play every day because he was happy.
“We all know what Phil can do. Just play him and enjoy football. His physical condition is outstanding, he is ready in his mind, and he can play high strength every three days.
Guardiola also told journalists that Ehling Haaland is ready to face Burnley after missing a match against Huddersfield due to a back injury.
Haaland has excellent form and has scored seven goals this season from his six appearances so far.
According to Guardiola, four players are undoubtedly unavailable. The Spaniards said that Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, Omar Marmoush and Abdukodir Khusanov were all out.
However, midfielder Mateo Kovasic could be fit after recovering from surgery due to an Achilles tendon problem.
Everyone is happy to meet Walker
Guardiola also had kind words to Burnley’s fullback Kyle Walker, who left City in the summer after finishing the season at Serie A-side AC Milan.
“I’m sure everyone is happy to see him,” Guardiola said.
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Burnley’s Kyle Walker and his teammates responded on September 14, 2025 in Burnley, England, during a Premier League match at Burnley and Liverpool’s Turf Moor.
Image credits: Getty Images
“It’s been an incredible few years for us and he’s been the right back who defined our time here in the last eight years… I’m sure he’ll get the appreciation of our fans.
“The incredible person in the locker room who is one of the greatest in terms of consistency and injury and playing all the games.”
When is Brentford v Manchester United?
Brentford hosted Manchester United at the Premier League GTECH Community Stadium on Saturday, September 27th.
