Pep Guardiola says Oscar Bobb’s new City contract is fully deserved but has told the exciting City youngster that the most difficult part of his ongoing development now awaits.

The 20-year-old Norwegian international put pen to paper on a new three-year deal earlier today, extending his stay at the Etihad through to the summer of 2029.

It follows what has already been a breakthrough season for Bobb following his elevation into City’s first team squad last summer.

The attacking midfielder has made 16 appearances across all competitions so far this term, scoring two goals and providing two assists.

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But addressing the media about Bobb’s new deal ahead of Tuesday’s FA Cup fifth-round trip to Luton Town, the City boss spelled out the demanding challenge that now awaits the youngster.

“He deserves it. I’m very happy,” Pep revealed when asked about Bobb’s contract extension.

“[The most impressive thing about him? Application [and] his commitment and work ethic.
 
“Without the application he would not be here. 

“[But] the most difficult part is now for Oscar.

“Arrive, and to make an impact is the most easiest one.

“The really difficult one is to stay there for a long time and the minutes you play to perform well and earn more minutes… that is the part that is most difficult.

“For a young player to arrive and make some appearances, many can do it.

“But to be in the Premier League and to be at City for many years… this is the most difficult thing.”

Looking ahead both immediately to what promises to be a testing assignment at Kenilworth Road as well to the rest of the season in general, the City boss also reaffirmed how motivated his squad were to succeed once again.

But in looking at the strength of the opposition - both domestically and abroad - Guardiola also asserted that he and his players took absolutely nothing for granted.

And Pep again stressed how every single victory had to be earned the hard way. 

“I have said many times. From the beginning on September 3 when people said we are not consistent enough. I completely disagree,” the City boss added.

“They could do it. I like being here to defend my players when I see what they can do.

“[But] that doesn’t mean they are going to win.

“Look at the quality of the opponents here and in Europe. Inter in the Champions League [final last year]. We knew how tough they were going to be. 

“It looks like they are going to win the Italian league They score three or four goals a game and beat a tough, tough opponent like Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last 16 first leg.

“Everything is really, really tough. That’s what my message is.

“Don’t take it for granted, ‘City in September, October are going to win.’ Don’t take it for granted those comments. Don’t believe them - they are not here.

“It’s so difficult to continue to be up there.

“Just look at the Carabao Cup final on Sunday… in each competition every team to plays to win and to win and it’s tough to be there.”