Adama Traore lifts lid on post-match conversation with Pep Guardiola and reveals what Man City boss told him

Adama Traore has explained exactly what Pep Guardiola said to him after Manchester City’s 3-2 win against Fulham last Saturday.

Traore was up to his usual tricks at the Etihad. The Spaniard impressed with his pace, power and willingness to take on City’s defenders in last weekend’s fixture.

His overall play was excellent, but he could not quite find a finish to several clear-cut chances against Pep Guardiola’s side.

The City boss and Traore are familiar with each other, having both represented Barcelona.

In fact, Guardiola could be seen speaking to the 28-year-old after the final whistle. This has become a theme throughout Pep’s time at City.

Ex-Southampton winger Nathan Redmond experienced a similar thing back in 2017.

On that occasion, it initially appeared that Guardiola was acting ‘aggressively’ towards the player. But Redmond later dismissed the claims and explained how the City manager was telling him, “You are a really good player”.

Traore confirmed it was a pleasant experience for him also.

“I’ve known him for a few years, but it’s always appreciated,” Traore told El Larguero when discussing the encounter with Guardiola.

“He is the best coach in the world, without a doubt.

“After the game, he came up to me to tell it was a good game, and he gave me some pointers on how to finish the chances I had against them.

“I met him at Barca. When I arrived at Aston Villa, I also had a call with him, and he has always been friendly.”

He also added how he was “happy” at Fulham, who have enjoyed a positive start to their Premier League season.

Silva’s side currently sit eighth in the league above the likes of Tottenham and Manchester United.

“The team is doing well, I feel good, I think we played well in the last game,” he added.

His chat with Guardiola was not the only story that came out of his last appearance.

City right-back Kyle Walker and Traore are widely regarded as two of the quickest players in the league. Eagle-eyed fans took to social media to debate who would win a race. They soon found out.

Walker’s top speed was recorded at 37.31 km/h, with Micky van de Ven being the only player to record a quicker speed since the 2020/21 season.

Traore, in his own right, is one of the top speedsters in the league. His top speed is 36.60 km/h, according to Speedsbd.

However, in the 67^th minute of the game, Traore left Walker behind when the pair raced towards goal, but Traore could not beat Ederson from close-range.

Guardiola will be hoping Traore does not implement his advice too well when the side’s next meet on the final day of the season – a day City will hope to secure their fifth consecutive league title.