Manchester City Player Ratings vs. Spurs: Rodri has a shocker
By Ivan Buss
Riyad Mahrez – 6
Mahrez had the best chance of the game for City, hitting one off the post. He was unable to replicate his magic against Spurs but was given very little chance to do so today with only 34 touches.
Jack Grealish -7.5 MOTM
I honestly applaud Grealish for his ability to take kick, after kick, after kick from opponent players, and remain level-headed (for the most part). His work on the ball going forward was immense today, and ultimately it was Grealish and his sweet feet that got Romero sent off toward the end of the game. This gave City a glimmer of hope, but you know what they say, it’s the hope that kills you.
What has been more impressive of late from Grealish is his defensive work rate. He tracked back on a few occasions and won 2 of his 3 tackles in critical situations to stop counterattacks from Spurs. He carried the threat for City going forward and did his job on the defensive side of the ball as well.
Erling Haaland – 5
You would be forgiven for forgetting Haaland was even playing today. With just 27 touches, the least of any outfield player for Manchester City today, he looked disconnected and desperate for service which he never received. This is not his fault, however, as we know very well he can make a difference with just 1 touch in a game.
He had to come deep on many occasions just to get involved in build-up play and to get a feel of the ball, and with no service coming from out wide, well, he was rendered helpless in today’s match. Pep has work to do to ensure his top goalscorer is able to get involved and receives the service that he needs.
Subs
Kevin De Bruyne -6
Service lacked his normal quality, but the question remains why he wasn’t involved in this game from the start, where I feel he could’ve posed a much bigger problem for Spurs.
Ilkay Gundogan – N/A
1/1 on successful passes. So….yeah.
With this result, City is surely now facing an uphill battle to win a third successive Premier League title, as if they weren’t already. These two games against Arsenal just became even more important for Manchester City.