Pep Guardiola paid tribute to Newcastle United after his side's 4-3 defeat at St James' Park.
The Magpies were beaten in a thriller on Tyneside but Guardiola was full of respect for Newcastle after they went 1-0 up and 3-2 up and forced his side to fight back.
The former Barcelona boss felt sorry for fans after not being able to see the game in what was the last match behind closed doors at St James'.
After the game, Guardiola said : "I think it was a brilliant game from both sides, unfortunately, no people in the stadium.
"They are an incredibly tough opponent, we always struggled to beat Newcastle, they are so tough and have incredible runs, top top side."
Guardiola's side were boosted by £21million man Ferran Torres' hat-trick with the ex-Valencia star showing his quality either side of half-time.
Pep said: "I was delighted for the three goals but he has incredible numbers for a first season in England.
"He didn’t play during a period of two months much. "He came as a winger with incredible runs in behind but he can play as a striker, he has a real sense of goal."
Guardiola showed his quality as he left the Press room and said: "Thank you Newcastle" before heading for the team bus.
