Manchester City, the runaway Premier League leaders, hosted Chelsea this afternoon at the Etihad in a crucial Premier League encounter. The Blues had to defy the odds and clinch a win to revive their title hopes, but their dreams were shattered when a wonder goal from Kevin De Bruyne ruined all their efforts midway through the second half.
Below are the Chelsea players rated in their 1-0 defeat against Manchester City.
Kepa Arrizabalaga: 7
Made some smart saves to keep Chelsea in the contest. Could have done little to stop Kevin De Bruyne’s curler from 20 yards out with around 20 minutes remaining.
Antonio Rudiger: 7.5
Combative with his tackles and challenges in the defensive third. Tried to carry the ball forward out from the back, however, his long balls lacked accuracy most of the time.
Thiago Silva: 7
The veteran Brazilian showed a great sense of positioning from the heart of the backline. Lost a few duels, but his interceptions and recoveries helped Chelsea maintain command.
Malang Sarr: 7.5
The young centre-back showed his grit and determination despite persistent pressure from the Citizens. Made some no-nonsense clearances, won duels and pulled off timely tackles and interceptions to contain the City attack from his end.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 6.5
Had a busy outing as a right wingback. Although tried his best to offer his presence high up the pitch with crosses and dribbles, Man City’s possessional display forced him to concentrate more on the defensive duties over surging forward from the flank.
N’Golo Kante: 7
Industrious in the centre of the pitch as he had the most number of tackles in the game. Carried the ball forward from the deep, showed great strength to hold it under pressure, but the Frenchman failed to catch De Bruyne with his challenge before the Belgian maestro fired in the winner.
Mateo Kovacic: 6.5
Drew a few fouls in the middle of the park, had some successful recoveries and dribbles, also showed his composure while recovering possession. Had a nervy start against City’s passing and pressing game before settling down and exhibiting his resilience.
Marcos Alonso: 6
An underwhelming display from the Spaniard with poor decision-making and finishing skill. Got dispossessed frequently and was eventually replaced by Mason Mount in the closing minutes.
Christian Pulisic: 5.5
A quiet afternoon of football from the American as he failed to cause enough menace in the City box. Made way for Timo Werner midway through the second half.
Hakim Ziyech: 5.5
Had an effort off target in the first half. Should have been more clinical while operating as an attacker. Got replaced by Callum Hudson-Odoi moments before De Bruyne’s stellar strike.
Romelu Lukaku: 5
Had the least number of touches as he was found isolated while spearheading the attack. Struggled to retain possession despite the physicality and holding attributes.
Chelsea Subs Vs Manchester City
Callum Hudson-Odoi: 5.5
Failed to produce anything significant in place of Hakim Ziyech.
Timo Werner: 5.5
Made no impact at all since replacing Christian Pulisic in the attacking third.
Mason Mount: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
