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Doku's clutch performances fuel City's title push
Manchester City remain two points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal after a 3-0 victory over Brentford on Saturday, with Jeremy Doku playing a pivotal role in the result. The 23-year-old winger scored the opener and has now contributed seven goal involvements in his last six matches, a dramatic improvement from his previous form.
From promise to impact: Doku's evolution
Doku, who had previously faced criticism for not adding enough goals to his game, has silenced doubters with a string of decisive performances. His curling finish against Brentford marked his fourth goal in three consecutive matches, including a last-gasp equalizer at Everton and a brace in the FA Cup semi-final against Southampton.
Pep Guardiola praised Doku's transformation, stating: "It is not enough to make good crosses for the other ones, you have to win games and score goals."
"I'm an instinct player. Today it's working out. I scored some goals, I've always played with instinct but now the goals are coming."
Jeremy Doku, Manchester City winger
A winger's growing arsenal
Doku's recent displays have showcased his versatility and confidence. Against Brentford, he tormented full-back Michael Kayode with his dribbling, acceleration, and ability to cut inside and shoot with either foot. His performance earned widespread acclaim, with former Wales defender Ashley Williams calling it "the best we have seen of Jeremy Doku."
Former Manchester City striker Daniel Sturridge echoed the sentiment, highlighting Doku's improved decisiveness: "The repetitions in training are paying off. His game is progressing, he is becoming more decisive in those moments."
Title race hinges on Sunday's clash
With Arsenal facing West Ham on Sunday, the Premier League title race remains finely poised. A win for Mikel Arteta's side would put them in a commanding position, with only two games remaining against already-relegated Burnley and Crystal Palace. However, a slip-up would leave the door open for City, who face Crystal Palace and Bournemouth before their final match against Aston Villa.
Guardiola, while acknowledging the significance of the Arsenal-West Ham match, downplayed his interest, citing a family visit. Erling Haaland, who reached 50 goals for the season, admitted the team "can't think of the title race" but will monitor the game's outcome.
Brentford manager Keith Andrews recognized City's depth of talent, noting: "If it's not Doku, then someone else will step up and that is the luxury Pep has."
Personal milestone adds to Doku's motivation
Doku dedicated his goal to his father, who turned 60 on Saturday. Reflecting on his journey, the Belgium international said: "I am becoming a dad soon and he sacrificed his life for me every time, bringing me to the club not knowing I would be what I am now."
With his recent form, Doku is not only keeping Manchester City's title hopes alive but also staking his claim as one of the world's top wingers.
