Huang Jianxiang: Doku’s outbreak has both subjective and objective reasons. Guardiola gave attackers more freedom.

 3:49pm, 11 November 2025

On his personal social media, Huang Jianxiang talked about Manchester City winger Doku, who performed well in Manchester City's victory over Liverpool.

Huang Jianxiang wrote on his personal social media:

Doku's outbreak this season has already gained momentum, but it was just against Liverpool because the important opponent in the game was strong and he received a lot of attention. He is equivalent to shining in the spotlight. I think there are two reasons for his changes this season: First, Guardiola has given more freedom and risk space not only to Doku this season, but to all his players, especially the attackers.

For example, in the past, Doku tried two dribbles, one was successful and the other was intercepted. Gua may be more concerned about the one that failed, which led the players to choose safe passes and gradually lost their personal abilities. But now, Gua encourages and appreciates the successful dribble, and has a new way of dealing with the risk of losing the ball.

The second is Duoku’s personal improvement. Although he was famous for his ability to pass by when he debuted, when cutting in from the left side, he often had to raise his right arm to maintain balance, as if to pull himself back. This is a very obvious action. Recently, he no longer needs to do this.

At the same time, the flexibility of his hip joints is particularly outstanding, and it has even become softer in the senses. He can change directions and exert force according to his heart's desire. He can twist around and move left and right, so it is basically impossible to defend the opponent one-on-one. Perhaps, with targeted training, I have become better and stronger. It is always gratifying to see a top first-line player improve himself and take his skills to a new level after becoming famous: because, otherwise, what would we be looking at?