Manchester City suffered a setback against Liverpool in the Community Shield final, but they bounced back this evening with a commanding win against West Ham United at the London Stadium. Erling Haaland was heavily criticized for his wasted opportunities versus the Merseysiders. However, the Norwegian hitman exhibited his excellence with a brace in their Premier League season opener.
Below are the Manchester City players rated in their 2-0 win against West Ham United.
Ederson Moraes: 7
Had a comfortable outing between the sticks. Faced little trouble from the hosts en route to grabbing a clean sheet.
Kyle Walker: 7
Showed his physical strength down the right-hand flank. Threatened with his overlapping runs. Could have done better at times in the defensive third.
Ruben Dias: 7.5
Made some no-nonsense clearances. Maintained a great passing accuracy while playing it out from the back.
Nathan Ake: 7.5
Looked composed in the heart of the backline. Carried the ball forward from the deep on a few occasions. Made some key recoveries and interceptions.
Joao Cancelo: 8
Excellent down the left as he not only contained Jarrod Bowen but also created attacking threats with marauding runs and link-up play.
Rodri: 8
Orchestrated the game from his trademark ‘number 6′ role. Won the majority of duels and kept on breaking down opponents’ moves in the centre of the pitch.
Ilkay Gundogan: 8.5
His vision and game-reading attributes played a key role in the opening goal. The German’s through ball helped Haaland win the spot-kick at the backend of the first half. Made way for Bernardo Silva late in the match.
Kevin De Bruyne: 8.5
Another majestic display from the midfield maestro. Set it up perfectly for Haaland who made no mistake in doubling the lead minutes over the hour mark. Made way for Cole Palmer with minutes remaining before the final whistle.
Phil Foden: 7.5
His pace and swift footwork caused problems in the Hammers’ defence. Was successful with a few dribbling attempts, and also looked threatening with his cut insides and passes into the final third. Was taken off to be replaced by Riyad Mahrez late in the game.
Jack Grealish: 7.5
Much better display from the Englishman despite failing to find the net or registering an assist. His dribbles, crosses and one-twos were effective enough to create space and cause menace in the attacking third.
Erling Haaland: 9
Showed why he is hailed as one of the finest ‘number 9s’ of the current generation. Converted from the spot and made no mistake in firing in from a close range after picking up De Bruyne’s delivery. Made way for Julian Alvertz with 12 minutes remaining.
Manchester City Subs Vs West Ham United
Julian Alvarez: 6
A good few minutes for the young Argentine high up the pitch.
Bernardo Silva: 6.5
His liveliness in midfield allowed the Citizens to defend the margin in the closing minutes.
Cole Palmer: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Riyad Mahrez: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Kalvin Phillips: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
