Published: 22:35, 6 February 2026 | Updated: 22:40, 6 February 2026

As Manchester City scored what was always likely to be the crucial first goal of the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle on Wednesday, Pep Guardiola turned and grinned up at the executive level of the Etihad Stadium's huge East Stand and held two clenched fists in the air.

Goals to Guardiola have never elicited the wild and sometimes performative celebrations typical of some of his peers. To the great Catalan, they have most often been greeted by something approaching relief, almost as though they represent less a visceral joy and more a vindication of method.

Few coaches in world football ask more questions of himself, his players and the game than Guardiola.

The statistics — three Champions League triumphs and winning the title in three major European leagues — may suggest he has, at the age of 55, conquered the game he loves — but according to those who know him, that is not how he feels. For Guardiola, the quest for real and pure understanding goes on.

The question now...