Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola sees several Premier League sides struggling at Burnley this season.

His side were ultimately too strong for the Clarets on the opening night of the Premier League campaign. Erling Haaland scored two first-half goals – the second a devastatingly ruthless first-time finish. Burnley went toe-to-toe with last season’s treble winners, but Rodri struck home the killer blow towards the end of the second half.

Post-match, Guardiola was very satisfied with his team’s work on the evening. The City chief felt his side’s passage of play mid

way through the first half was vital, as well as the unique traits offered by Haaland. Regardless of the win being somewhat comfortable in the end, Guardiola thinks Burnley can make Turf Moor a fortress in the top flight.

“The first game of the season, away, against a newly promoted team with this passion and love is always so complicated and tricky,” said Guardiola post-match. “Last season Vinny changed completely the way they play. Sean Dyche was magnificent for this club… don’t misunderstand me.

“But Vinny, in a short time, changed the mentality, the way they play, the build-ups, the pressing. In the Championship last season, with two months left, it was already over – they were promoted. He did an incredible job.

“It is not an easy place to come and a lot of games here, teams are going to suffer. That is why I am really pleased. Against high pressing, man-to-man teams Erling is an incredible weapon in behind. There was a moment around 30 or 35 minutes when Bernardo dropped, Mateo dropped, Phil dropped and we attack with the full-back on the outside and make a lot, a lot of passes. That was key.”