Manchester City endured another frustrating outing as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Boxing Day. Despite taking an early lead through a deflected strike from Bernardo Silva, Pep Guardiola’s side struggled to maintain control and saw their advantage slip away after a defensive lapse and the score became Man City 1-1 Everton.
Erling Haaland had a chance to secure victory in this Man City vs Everton game with a penalty but failed to convert, further highlighting City’s ongoing struggles. Everton held firm to claim a valuable point, while City’s winless streak extended, leaving them outside the Premier League’s top five.
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So, how did Pep Guardiola’s men perform in this Man City vs Everton Premier League clash? Here is the Man City player ratings vs Everton from their 1-1 draw at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League.
Man City player ratings vs Everton - Premier League
Goalkeeper: Stefan Ortega (5/10)
Stefan Ortega had little to do for most of the match. He was not at fault for Everton’s goal and remained solid when called upon.
Right Back: Rico Lewis (4/10)
Rico Lewis struggled defensively, leaving his man unmarked on several occasions. He failed to assert himself both defensively and in attack.
Centre Back: Manuel Akanji (4/10)
Manuel Akanji had difficulty handling Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s physicality. His positioning during crucial moments left the defence exposed.
Centre Back: Josko Gvardiol (5/10)
Josko Gvardiol looked better in possession and even hit the post early on. However, he was not entirely convincing defensively.
Left Back: Nathan Ake (7/10)
Nathan Ake was City’s best defender on the day. He made two crucial tackles on Calvert-Lewin and provided stability in a shaky backline.
Defensive Midfielder: Mateo Kovacic (5/10)
Mateo Kovacic could not dominate the midfield battle. He was outplayed by Idrissa Gueye and failed to impact the game significantly.
Right Winger: Savinho (5/10)
Savinho earned the penalty with his skill but offered little else. His overall contribution lacked end product.
Attacking Midfielder: Phil Foden (8/10)
Phil Foden was City’s brightest spark. He delivered several defence-splitting passes and showed glimpses of his top form from last season.
Attacking Midfielder: Bernardo Silva (5/10)
Bernardo Silva operated in a deeper role but struggled to influence the game consistently. His goal was fortunate, and he missed a clear opportunity later on.
Left Winger: Jeremy Doku (5/10)
Jeremy Doku assisted the opening goal and looked dangerous in moments. However, his defensive errors contributed to Everton’s equaliser.
Centre Forward: Erling Haaland (3/10)
Erling Haaland had a game to forget. He missed a penalty, wasted good chances, and lacked sharpness throughout the match.
Man City substitutes
Kevin De Bruyne (5/10) - Doku 75’
Kevin De Bruyne came on late and tried to create chances. He set up Haaland for an opportunity that went begging.
Jahmai Simpson-Pusey (NA/10) - Ake 85’
Jahmai Simpson-Pusey replaced Ake in the final minutes but had no significant impact.
Ilkay Gundogan (NA/10) - Kovacic 85’
Ilkay Gundogan came on in the 85th minute and could not help the team find a winner.
Man City manager
Pep Guardiola (4/10)
Pep Guardiola’s tactics failed to inspire. His substitutions came too late, and the team lacked the cutting edge needed to secure three points.