Pep Guardiola saluted the "extraordinary" Raheem Sterling after Manchester City's majestic winger hit a brilliant 11-minute hat-trick in Tuesday's 5-1 thrashing of Atalanta.
Guardiola's side were rocked by Ruslan Malinovsky's first half penalty in the Champions League clash at the Etihad Stadium.
But City responded superbly as Sergio Aguero struck twice before the interval. Sterling had provided the assists for both of Aguero's goals, but the England star was just getting warmed up.
After the interval, Sterling struck three times to complete a personal masterclass that underlined his rise in the Guardiola era from enigmatic playmaker to lethal finisher. Sterling has emerged as City's driving force over the last 18 months and his second hat-trick of the season confirmed his place among the world's best players.
"All the credit is for him. He's a guy whose physicality is incredible. He is so strong," Guardiola said.
"A day after a game, he could play another. His regeneration is incredible and he can play both sides. He is an extraordinary player."
Asked if the 24-year-old could get even better, Guardiola added: "It depends on him, his desire, and I think he has that."
"Three more points in the next game and we will be in the next stage."
- Sterling sparkles -
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