Manchester City continued their exceptional form this season with a win that could potentially make a big statement for the rest of the pack. The Sky Blues were simply outstanding as they beat defending champions Chelsea 1:0 to retain their top spot in the table. Kevin de Bruyne’s sizzling long range was the difference between the two sides at Stamford Bridge this evening.
Here are the Manchester City players rated and slated in their win over Chelsea.
Ederson (8.5/10): Kept his run of not conceding a goal since 26th of August intact with an impressive performance. The Brazilian is definitely making a strong case of being the top choice goalkeeper for his national side in the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Kyle Walker (8/10): Was a bit clumsy with some of his passes but his positional sense was superb as it led to a clean sheet once again Vs the sharp attacking Chelsea side.
John Stones (8.5/10): This was clearly one of his best games this season. The English International was very decisive in his tackling and aerial battles, ultimately putting a stop to Chelsea’s progress into the box.
Nicolas Otamendi (7.5/10): A committed performance from the Argentinian, who partnered alongside Stones very well in the centre of the defence. He made some crunching tackles which were very important.
Fabian Delph (8/10): Surprised everyone with a stunning performance against Chelsea. Despite playing in his rather unusual left back position, Delph was still quite impressive, largely thanks to his positioning sense. He was seen joining Fernandinho in the centre of the midfield too.
Fernandinho (8/10): Stamped his authority in the middle with a strong and dominating performance. The Brazilian prevented any Blues midfielder to take control in the game while also helping his side continue an attacking momentum in the final third.
Raheem Sterling (7/10): Was a menace on the right flank, especially with his direct runs into the defence. Although his influence faded away as the game went on.
Kevin de Bruyne (9.5/10): Manchester City’s golden boy! Showed just why he’s considered as one of the best playmakers in the world, with an utterly dominating performance. Always sniffing and probing, de Bruyne was rewarded for his efforts with a stunning goal, which proved to be the winner for the visitors.
David Silva (8/10): Complemented the work done by Kevin de Bruyne very well with some clever passing and his composing presence in central midfield. He also made some key runs, which could have been much more dangerous.
Leroy Sane (6.5/10): Failed to concentrate on the game as he was often outdone by the opposing defenders in Azpilicueta or compatriot Antonio Rudiger. Not exactly a great performance from the former Schalke youth prodigy.
Gabriel Jesus (8.5/10): Put in a great shift in the absence of Sergio Aguero. It was a real test for the young striker which he seemed to have passed quite well. Whenever he wasn’t in the focal point of the action, he always made some runs to keep the Chelsea defence busy throughout the game. His lovely one-two with Kevin de Bruyne resulted in the opener in the second half.
Substitutes
Bernardo Silva (7/10): Replaced another Silva in David for the final phase of the game. Bernardo brought in more freshness in the City attack, as he looked to find the goal which could have sealed all three points for the Sky Blues.
Ilkay Gundogan (NA): Also made his comeback after suffering a knock against West Brom. Looked very tidy on the ball, and at times joined in with the attackers.
Danilo (NA): Was subbed on in the last minute of the game to eat up some time.
