Full Time: Manchester City 7-2 Stoke City
A stunning Kevin De Bruyne masterclass put Pep Guardiola’s men back to their top spot in the table, as Manchester City hammered Stoke City 7-2. There was one scary moment for the club when Stoke’s Diouf scored soon after the break, but that goal only served to inspire the hosts once again as De Bruyne led his team-mates from the front.
Saturday’s early goalless draw between Liverpool and United presented City with a golden opportunity to get ahead of Jose Mourinho’s Red Devils by two points, and Guardiola’s side certainly took full advantage of that as they reduced Stoke to a sorry plight.
Gabriel Jesus, Raheem Sterling and David Silva all struck within the first 24 minutes to put up a threatening display at the Etihad and outplayed the visitors on every level.
Manchester City Player Ratings
Ederson – 7/10
The player was not tested at all since Stoke resorted to staying deep in order to play a very defensive game. Manchester City enjoyed most of the possession, so there weren’t many chances for the Potters to do much anyway.
Kyle Walker – 8.5/10
Walker is proving to be quite an asset for Manchester City. In fact, it seems like he has become a crowd favourite since the spectators appeared to love his blistering performance at the back for the club. He was important going forward as well since his run and cross brought that opening goal. Never mind the own goal.
John Stones – 7.5/10
Stones seemed a little lax when Stoke scored their second goal but apart from that, he was a treat to watch. His defending and his passing appear to be getting better with time.
Otamendi – 6/10
The only downside to an otherwise strong City defence, Otamendi seemed asleep whenever Stoke posed any sort of threat.
Fabian Delph – 8.5/10
Delph started in Benjamin Mendy’s place and was a force to be reckoned with on the left flank. He was tireless and fearless as he went about dominating the opposition with finesse.
Fernandinho – 9.5/10
He may not be the most creative player on the field but Fernandinho is definitely the most effectively functional player. His goal only added to an already solid performance.
David Silva – 9/10
Kevin De Bruyne may have been the star but Silva put up a commendable supporting act. City played beautiful attacking football throughout and Silva was a crucial part of that.
Kevin De Bruyne – 10/10
The player deserves more than a 10 for his performance. The true extent of his impact was evident as the City fans were chanting his name for his stunning assists, instead of the goal-scorer’s. Sheer class through and through, De Bruyne is one of the best in the Premier League right now.
Raheem Sterling – 9/10
Sterling bagged another goal and a couple of assists in a successful outing against Stoke. His erratic style is often criticised but it proved to be effective against the Potters.
Leroy Sane – 9.5/10
He did miss an early chance but he made up for it later. The player essayed a key part in Silva’s third goal, while he also scored a lovely goal himself. He was menacing, to say the least.
Gabriel Jesus – 9.5/10
The youngster scored two goals as he brutally assaulted the Stoke defence. He is blossoming into an all-round striker since he has the perfect balance between aggression and class.