The Midfield
Ilkay Gundogan
A surprise to see him again take on the defensive midfield role whilst Fernandinho continued his recuperation on the bench. There were passages in this game where Gundogan had Tottenham under control but periods when he did not. Occasionally caught out of position allowing the defence to be placed under constant threat. Struggled in particular on the second balls as Spurs reverted to a long ball game.
Player Rating 7
Phil Foden
Another surprise was that Guardiola trusted Foden to start in such a big game and this trust was duly rewarded with the winning goal! Foden has a good engine and despite his stature he harassed Tottenham and pressed until he ran out of energy. He looks the real deal in these cameo appearances.
Player Rating 9
Kevin De Bruyne
Sadly withdrawn at 30 minutes through a further injury which may restrict his ability to take part in any more of this frustrating season. The fact he had seemed to be getting to the point of his old self just seems a cruel and unnecessary further punishment.
Player Rating 7