Marmoush dispels City's doubts ahead of Real Madrid clash

Manchester City returned to the Etihad this Saturday following their painful 2-3 defeat to Real Madrid at the same stadium, with hopes of achieving a heroic comeback at the Bernabéu in four days. After facing heavy criticism, Pep Guardiola's team delivered their best performance of the season, completely dominating Newcastle, who arrived level on points with City. In a high-intensity match, Manchester City thrashed Newcastle 4-0, with a brilliant hat-trick from Marmoush, who scored his first goals for the team, and a final goal from McAtee.

Guardiola made six changes to his lineup compared to the match against Real Madrid, rotating several players due to the importance of upcoming fixtures. City was in fifth place in the Premier League, while Newcastle was sixth, level on points. With this victory, City capitalized on Chelsea's defeat to enter the Champions League spots, moving up to fourth place.

The winter transfer window signings were the novelties in the starting eleven. Nico González, returning from an injury in the Cup, created several chances and contributed to the team's dominance, proving to be the player who could provide the much-needed balance. John Stones returned to his original position as a central defender, partnering with debutant Khusanov. Marmoush, the third signing, played as an attacking midfielder, while Foden returned to the wing. In attack, Haaland and Savinho led the offensive front.

City dominated possession from the start, controlling the pace of the game, although they struggled to create clear chances. Despite maintaining control, Newcastle attempted to capitalize on defensive errors this season, launching quick counterattacks with Isak as the main threat. However, City remained solid in defense and managed to prevent the few slip-ups from turning into goals.

Marmoush, the standout player, scored his first goals for Manchester City, achieving a brilliant hat-trick. The first goal came after an assist from Ederson, who ventured out of the area to start the play. The Egyptian took advantage of the space and outran Trippier, finishing with an elegant chip over Dubravka.

It wasn't long before Marmoush showcased his goal-scoring instinct again. With a perfect run and once more unchallenged by Trippier, he scored his second goal. Then, after an excellent play by Savinho, Marmoush beat Dubravka again, completing his hat-trick.

At the end of the match, Haaland was instrumental with an assist from a corner to McAtee, who scored the fourth goal. He also participated in high pressing but suffered a minor incident after landing awkwardly, causing discomfort in his knee. To avoid any potential scares, he sat on the bench, and it seemed to be just a minor knock as he quickly recovered. Guardiola decided to withdraw him as a precaution, considering the important match against Real Madrid.

City played their best match of the season, offering solid and effective play. Although they didn't create many clear chances, Guardiola's men controlled the tempo of the game intelligently, not allowing Newcastle any space, who never managed to threaten the result. This victory marks the first time the Mancunians have won three consecutive matches, after defeating West Ham, Chelsea, and this Saturday, Newcastle. However, they are still 13 points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand and play against Wolverhampton this Sunday.