Pep Guardiola hailed Sergio “Kun” Aguero as a “legend” after the Argentina striker wrote himself into history with a hattrick to become the most
prolific overseas player in English football.
The forward’s goals in Manchester City’s 6-1 win at Aston Villa saw him reach 177 and move past Thierry Henry, who finished at Arsenal with 175.
Aguero’s hattrick was his 12th since joining City in 2011 – another record, overtaking Alan Shearer.
And Guardiola says of his star man: “He’s a legend and the legend rose [against Villa].
“He’s an incredible person and I like to work with nice people.”
Posting on Twitter, Aguero, 31, added: “It’s truly moving to reach new milestones alongside legends like Thierry Henry, Frank Lampard and Alan Shearer.”
HIGH PRAISE: Boss Pep Guardiola. Picture: AP Photo/Rui Vieira
The 31-year-old’s contract at City expires at the end of next season, and he indicated last May that he would be keen to return to his
boyhood club Independiente in Argentina.
Guardiola adds of his future: “It depends on him and the club. It’s his decision.
“There are many of these kind of players through the history of English football, and he helps to make the Premier League and English football better.
“The best [player I’ve worked with] is [Lionel] Messi but of the rest, Sergio is absolutely one of the best, no doubt.
“When you break this record, held by another incredible legend like Titi Henry, it means you’ve been consistent for many years.”
Guardiola’s manne were on fire on Sunday night as they returned to second place in the Premier League.
Riyad Mahrez hit a double to fire City 2-0 up at Villa Park before Kun opened his account and Gabriel Jesus got on the scoresheet before half time. Aguero would complete his hattrick after the break.