How’s that for fire, Pep? Not a roaring Manchester City performance, rather warm enough to toast some marshmallows. Pleasant without becoming particularly wild.
And there are not too many teams you can describe as that after a comprehensive three-goal win, after their talisman scored a fourth hat-trick of the season and bears down on more records.
But then this is City and they possess a few extra logs to chuck on in reserve if needed. Guardiola – who heavily criticised the club’s hunger and desire to retain another title last week – will want those utilised when they schedule becomes packed with must-win games at home and abroad.