It was back to business for Manchester City as they entertained the crowds at Cardiff City on Saturday.
The team put in a five-star performance and never put a foot wrong once Sergio Aguero’s shot went past the Cardiff City’s keeper. Their dominance was enough to allow the midfield to control the game and exasperate the hosts.
Pep praised the dynamic nature of their performance, especially as things turned flat in midweek.
"“We were more dynamic. After not a good result in midweek [against Lyon], we responded again to the same level that we had in the past 12 or 13 months. “We made a good performance, but after one or two goals, it was easy. At 0-3, you are relaxed and we were consistent. We didn’t suffer too much and created a good game.” – Guardiola speaking after the match"
The manager must had been happy with a markable improvement in performances in the recent week.
After watching the repeat of the game last night, it is time to analyse the player’s performances and come up with their ratings.
Ederson 7
The Brazilian goalkeeper never had much to do throughout the game but when called upon he never looked troubled as he only faced two shots on target. Impressive distribution allows a positive rating for his performances.
Kyle Walker 6.5
The English right-back was often caught out of position or failed to read a pass properly but was able to rely on his speed to account for his misunderstanding. Seen going into the centre-back position and looked uncomfortable again.
Aymeric Laporte 7
Another clean sheet for the team, the Frenchman is slowly becoming a force at the centre back and it is no surprises why Pep fancies him as his current number one. Let Bobby Reid run in behind on one occasion but his Championship quality was nothing to threaten the clean sheet. Looks more comfortable working with Nicolas Otamendi than John Stones.
Nicolas Otamendi 7
The Argentine took the place of Stones and showed us why he should always be considered for the starting XI. He was commanding in the air in what was clearly a physical matchup and, a counter to Cardiff’s direct style. Coped well throughout and demonstrated why he should be in the starting XI regularly.
Fabian Delph 7
A few errant passes at the start of the game but settled as City began to control the game. Put behind his performance against Lyon and the first 20 minutes to impress in an unfamiliar role.