Despite a routine 2-0 FA Cup victory, Pep Guardiola publicly criticised Manchester City’s flat display against Salford City.

City progressed to the next round but produced a performance Guardiola described as tactically flat and uninspired.

Facing League Two opposition at the Etihad, City were gifted an early lead when Tottenham loanee Alfie Dorrington scored an own goal in the sixth minute.

Marc Guehi sealed the tie in the 81st minute, though City squandered numerous additional chances.

After the game, Guardiola bluntly criticised his players, saying they failed to exploit space properly.

“That’s why the game was boring. The only good thing is that we go through it,” he said.

He admitted the squad looked mentally drained after a difficult run of fixtures.

City dominated possession with 80% of the ball and registered 12 shots, yet only three were on target, a statistic that frustrated the manager.

Guardiola’s comments reflect deeper concerns about rhythm and intensity heading into crucial fixtures.