Manchester City returned to winning ways with a 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest. This ended a seven-game winless streak for Pep Guardiola's side. Kevin De Bruyne delivered a standout performance, inspiring City with his brilliance in this Man City vs Nottm Forest Premier League fixture..
Goals from Bernardo Silva, De Bruyne, and Jeremy Doku secured the much-needed win with a scoreline Man City 3-0 Nottingham Forest. Guardiola made four changes to the lineup, bringing back key players to break the team's poor run of form.
So, how did the Citizens perform in this Man City vs Nottm Forest game? Here are the Man City player ratings vs Nottingham Forest in their 3-0 win at the Etihad in the Premier League.
Man City player ratings vs Nottingham Forest - Premier League (4-2-3-1)
Man City starting XI vs Nottingham Forest
Goalkeeper: Stefan Ortega (7/10)
Stefan Ortega made an important save to deny Morgan Gibbs-White's strike. He also disrupted Chris Wood when it mattered. Ortega did enough to remain in the starting lineup for now.
Right Back: Manuel Akanji (5/10)
Manuel Akanji looked rusty and struggled with his positioning in this Man City vs Nottm Forest game. He was replaced at half-time after a shaky first half.
Centre Back: Ruben Dias (6/10)
Ruben Dias showed leadership at the back, helping the defence stay organised. His performance continues to improve after his injury layoff.
Centre Back: Nathan Ake (6/10)
Nathan Ake was solid defensively and contributed to the build-up for the opening goal. Unfortunately, he hobbled off near the end due to a suspected injury.
Left Back: Josko Gvardiol (6/10)
Josko Gvardiol attacked down the left flank often but lacked precision in key moments. He missed good chances, including a header from close range.
Defensive Midfielder: Ilkay Gundogan (7/10)
Ilkay Gundogan controlled the tempo of the game with his passing and positioning. It was his best display since returning from injury.
Defensive Midfielder: Jack Grealish (6/10)
Jack Grealish worked hard defensively and played a supporting role in linking the midfield in this Man City vs Nottm Forest Premier League game. However, he lacked the cutting edge in attack.
Right Winger: Bernardo Silva (7/10)
Bernardo Silva was lively throughout the match. He broke his long goal drought with the opener and created several chances from the right wing.
Attacking Midfielder: Kevin De Bruyne (8/10)
Kevin De Bruyne was the star of the match in this Man City vs Nottm Forest game. His rocket goal and creative play in the final third were decisive. He came close to scoring a second but was denied by a fine save.
Left Winger: Jeremy Doku (7/10)
Jeremy Doku terrorised Forest’s defence in the second half. His solo goal showcased his skill and composure in tight spaces.
Centre Forward: Erling Haaland (4/10)
Erling Haaland had a quiet game by his standards. Apart from an early assist for Doku’s goal, he contributed little. He missed a big chance late on and will be disappointed.
Man City substitutes vs Nottingham Forest
Kyle Walker (6/10) - Akanji 46’
Kyle Walker had a steady 45 minutes. He looked comfortable defensively and helped keep things under control.
Rico Lewis (6/10) - De Bruyne 74’
Rico Lewis was energetic after coming on and frequently joined the attack.
Savinho (N/A) - Doku 90’
Savinho was introduced in added time and did not have time to make an impact in this Man City vs Nottm Forest game.
James McAtee (N/A) - Ake 90’
James McAtee came on late and could not contribute meaningfully.
Matheus Nunes (N/A) - Grealish 90’
Matheus Nunes was another late addition with no significant involvement.
Man City manager vs Nottingham Forest
Pep Guardiola (7/10)
Pep Guardiola made effective changes to the starting lineup in this Man City vs Nottm Forest game. The recalled players made the difference, and the tactical adjustments worked well.
What are your Man City player ratings vs Nottingham Forest in their 3-0 win at the Etihad in the Premier League?