While Newcastle pondered what might have been, Guardiola was full of praise for his team’s display. The Catalan coach, who is nearing a decade in Manchester, suggested this victory was among the most impressive he has witnessed at St James’ Park, reaching the last eight of the competition for the ninth time in ten seasons.

“In Leverkusen, it was a strong squad too, but we won today, so it was fine. It was a good decision and when I lose it was a bad decision,” Guardiola said. “This is the best performance we have played in this stadium since my decade here. That is consistency and that is why I am proud.” 

He also reserved special praise for his individual stars: “I am happy for him for a long time he was injured, and he needs time to do his best. He was the captain today and he deserves it,” he said of John Stones, before adding on Savinho: “What a winger. One against one – he is so dangerous.”