Player ratings: Manchester City v West Ham

Erling Haaland was criticised by “football fans” after his misses in the Community Shield but the Norwegian performs when it matters, and he has performed on the greatest stage.

His Premier League debut was marked with two goals, one from the penalty spot which he earned and another from a finish that compared him to the likes of Ronaldo (R9) and Thierry Henry. Not too bad, after many said he couldn’t do it in the Premier League.

Another performer who earned rave reviews was a surprise amongst most City fans to start, but Ilkay Gundogan was the man making chances happen with his creativity in the central areas. His passing was on-form, so maybe, that training in the under-23s and the Croatian sun did him the world of good.

City’s central defence also deserves a mention as they were able to nullify West Ham’s main attacking threat.  

The opening weekend saw Liverpool drop two points against newly promoted Fulham, Chelsea edge striker-less Everton and Manchester United put in a performance we come to expect by now. I say that is a good weekend in my books.

Looking back we can now celebrate and review the players’ performances.

Ederson – 6.5

Earned a nice little shiner from a challenge with Dias but looked comfortable without having too much to do. A few dodgy touches with his feet probably raised a few eyebrows but nothing to put City in trouble.

Kyle Walker – 6.5

Was not required to do much but his ball and position recovery was as good as ever, using his main strength when caught out. A few dodgy passes let him down a little.

Ruben Dias – 7

The way he marshalled West Ham’s greatest threat was too comfortable. Antonio ran rings around Fernandinho and Aymeric Laporte in the first 45 last season but Dias never allowed it this year.

Nathan Ake – 7
Was comfortable throughout the game and was never particularly challenged in the air by Antonio and Gianluca Scamacca when brought on. Choice over Stones was probably justified.

Joao Cancelo – 6.5

Started a bit off the pace but grew into the game more and more. Looked better defensively than going forward for a change. Gave West Ham a chance in the first five minutes following a strange crossfield pass.

Rodri – 7

Mr Reliable is all that can be said. Looked comfortable with West Ham’s midfield pressing him for errors that never came.

Kevin De Bruyne – 7

Had a few chances but his shooting wasn’t up to the normal standards. The highlight was the assist for Haaland’s second goal and supplied Haaland well throughout.

Ilkay Gundogan – 7.5

His defence-splitting pass created the space for Haaland’s first golden opportunity and to earn a penalty. Gundogan was composed and intelligent throughout the game. Gave Declan Rice a good chance which marks him down (a little).

Phil Foden – 6.5

A few nice dribbles but he was never effective enough to change the game.

Erling Haaland – 9

His run and pace caused Areola to rush out and take him out, resulting in the penalty. Was clinical from the spot. The second goal showed how he likes to run in behind, with a sublime finish.

Jack Grealish – 7

Created a chance for Haaland but never did enough to stamp his mark on the game. Felt it was also an extra touch or was never in the best position.

City will now come home to face Bournemouth who will likely experience low blocks of two to frustrate but quality should see them through to make it two wins from two.