Manchester City’s recent signings have revitalized the club, bringing them back to form. In a dominating performance, Omar Marmoush achieved a first-half hat trick, leading the team to a decisive 4-0 victory over Newcastle in the Premier League on Saturday. Nico Gonzalez also showcased his talent, bringing much-needed control to the midfield that had been missing since the injury of the Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, who is sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury.

This display resembled the commanding form that characterized Guardiola’s team during their four consecutive league title wins, a stark contrast to the unexpected losses the squad faced in the fall. “We remembered what we were, that we have not been this season,” Guardiola expressed in an interview.

Marmoush and Gonzalez emerged as the two standout signings amid City’s sizable $200 million investment during January, addressed to strengthen the squad after numerous injuries. Marmoush was acquired for a reported $73 million following his impressive season where he netted 20 goals for Eintracht Frankfurt across all competitions, aimed at providing additional scoring support alongside star forward Erling Haaland. In contrast, Gonzalez was brought in as a direct successor to Rodri after City triggered his $61.8 million release clause at Porto. Both players have begun to fulfill their roles effectively.

Guardiola reflected on Gonzalez’s impact, stating, “Nico Gonzalez helped us a lot. I was really pleased because we needed him; it has been a tough three months. He is our mini Rodri.” Meanwhile, Marmoush might be taking the position of a “mini Haaland.” The Egyptian forward marked his initiation with the club by scoring a splendid goal after receiving a long pass from goalkeeper Ederson and delicately lifting it over Martin Dubravka. Just five minutes later, he scored again after receiving a pass from Ilkay Gundogan in the penalty area, and he completed his hat trick in the 33rd minute when Savinho set him up perfectly to finish.

“We knew sooner or later he would score goals; he is a good finisher,” Guardiola commented on Marmoush’s performance. However, there are concerns that City’s resurgence may arrive too late in the season. Currently, the club finds itself in fourth place in the Premier League, trailing leader Liverpool by 13 points, with Liverpool also holding a game in hand.

In addition, City’s focus will soon shift to the Champions League, where they need to overcome a 3-2 deficit against Real Madrid in the second leg of their playoff on Wednesday to advance to the knockout stage. Despite the challenges ahead, if Marmoush continues to find the net, the potential for a turnaround remains. “Amazing afternoon. It could not have been better,” Marmoush shared. “Now for us, the focus is on the next game … and we’ll see what will happen.”