Manchester City have had an interesting start to the season and it was always on the cards with the widespread transition they were expected to undergo. Pep Guardiola came in to wake this talented yet lethargic City side from their slumber and the instant changes in rules and approach with a definitive view on work ethic was enough to charge the squad. After 11 matches we have a distinctive change in the squad and while the fans and the club alike would want City to walk the league, it is evident that is not going to be the case with several other teams in contention already.
Let us take a look at a couple of stars and duds of the season so far.
STARS
KEVIN DE BRUYNE
The Belgian has been exquisite under the Catalan. He took some time to settle in his new role but his quality has shone through since and he has quickly climbed the charts across Europe in terms of ability and praise. His absence through injury derailed City’s campaign last year and from his performances till now we can see why. He has scored 3 goals and has created 34 chances for his teammates. Keep it up Kev!
SERGIO AGUERO
The Argentine has had a couple of blips this season. One on the field and the subsequent off the field rumours about his equation with Pep. But he seems to have ridden over those and will look to continue his explosive start to the season. He has 11 goals and has created a further 16 chances for his teammates. These stats speak of the lethal nature of Kun and for City to win titles, he needs to be in the team.
ILKAY GUNDOGAN
The German ace was a somewhat risky move when his injury status was considered but City kept faith in him and at £21m, he is proving to be an absolute steal. Class and end-product. He epitomises both and if Gundogan can remain fit, Pep’s process will be a tad easier to implement. Already on 5 goals and 20 key passes. More to come.
DUDS
LEROY SANE
The exciting German winger can hardly be called a dud, given his age but in the scheme of things his output has been minimal and City would have hoped for a better settling in period. Hasn’t scored a goal yet and his quiet displays have made his sure his playing time is cut short. Everything yet to come, though.
JESUS NAVAS
The Spaniard winger can never be faulted for trying and although his crosses are improving day by day, his lack of end product can seriously hurt his prospects at the end of the season. He hasn’t scored or assisted yet and it is indeed a worrying sign.
