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English Clubs Manchester City FC, Injury Crisis
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kjs86
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 Sep 19 2025, 06:39 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma – 7
Rarely tested by the team from his homeland on his European debut for Manchester City, but made the saves as and when they were required.
Abdukodir Khusanov – 7.5
Continues to look the part on the right side of the City defence. Had little defending to do tonight, but played his part in the possession neatly.
Ruben Dias – 7.5
Faced off against former Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund, but had just as easy a job shutting him down as he did current Red Devils frontman Benjamin Sesko on Sunday.
Josko Gvardiol – 7
Enjoyed a very quiet evening. Barely any defending to do, and was able to join the attack with the occasional overlap on the left when he wanted.
Nico O’Reilly – 7
Like his fellow defenders, was rarely tested in his own half. Knocked it around in the middle and attacking thirds easily enough.
Rodri – 7.5
Looked far sharper than in the derby, dictating the play and only becoming more influential as the Blues’ superiority increased after the red card. Withdrawn on the hour with Sunday’s trip to Arsenal in mind.
Tijjani Reijnders – 7.5
Able to exert his influence more than on Sunday, getting on the ball in dangerous areas in and around the box. Couldn’t quite get on the scoresheet himself, but did claim an assist for Doku.
Phil Foden – 8.5 (POTM)
Seems very keen to right the wrongs of last season and become the talisman again that he was in 23/24. Back to what he does best; popping up everywhere in attacking midfield, demanding the ball at all times and making things happen for his team.
Bernardo Silva – 7.5
Flitted between a central and right-wing role, facilitating City’s possession and working hard to make sure they stayed in control.
Erling Haaland – 7.5
Didn’t have much influence on the control of the game, but earned the red card for di Lorenzo and scored his record-breaking goal clinically.
Jeremy Doku – 8
Unstoppable at the minute. Unlucky not to create anything with his offerings from the wing, before scoring himself in sublime fashion.
Substitutes
Nico – 6.5
Slotted straight into the passing play.
Savinho – 6
Went at his man a few times but didn’t have much success.
Nathan Ake – N/A
Rico Lewis – N/A
Oscar Bobb – N/A
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kjs86
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Sep 19 2025, 06:44 AM
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New Member
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Donnarumma: Made one good save in the first half and wasn't needed after that once Napoli were reduced to ten. 7
Khusanov: Looks more uncomfortable than Dias with the ball on the edge of the opposition box but defended well and showed a willingness to go forward. 7
Dias: A few sloppy passes in his own half, but he led the defence well and kept them pushing for the clean sheet. 7
Gvardiol: A quiet game, albeit that was no bad thing. Looked comfortable alongside Dias and covered well for O'Reilly. 7
O'Reilly: Good recoveries in defence and remains a nuisance for opponents when he ghosts towards the box. 7
Rodri: On hand to pick up possession and get City out of a number of potentially troubling situations at the back. 7
Reijnders: Looked most likely to score for a while as he was happy to test the Napoli 'keeper with his feet and his head. More like it. 7
Foden: City's best creator from the start, looking sharp and wanting the ball. A terrific assist for the first goal. 8
Silva: Had his moments on the right wing and it was an amazing block that stopped him getting an assist when Reijnders nearly scored. 7
Doku: Wasteful for most of the game but then turned it on in the box for a lovely individual strike to continue his momentum. 7
Haaland: Earned City their man advantage in the first half and broke the deadlock in the second. 8
Substitutes
Gonzalez (for Rodri, 60) Controlled the midfield well after being summoned to protect Rodri. 7
Savinho (for Doku, 70) Tried to spark something. 6
Lewis (for Reijnders, 81) Late arrival. 6
Ake (for Gvardiol, 81) 10-minute cameo. 6
Bobb (for Haaland, 81) Gave Haaland a breather. 6
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kjs86
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Sep 19 2025, 06:46 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma (6/10):
A quiet evening for the towering Italian. Dealt with Napoli's one shot on target with typical aplomb.
Abdukodir Khusanov (6/10):
Convincing when called upon in defence, provided an outlet in attack. A solid performance.
Ruben Dias (6/10):
Had very little defending to do after the red card. Popped up with some enticing crosses from an inside right position.
Josko Gvardiol (7/10):
Denied a goal when his powerful header was brilliantly saved by Milenkovic-Savic. Remains an attacking threat despite sliding back into the centre of defence.
Nico O'Reilly (6/10):
Comfortable overlapping or stepping into midfield. Has all the makings of a prototypical Guardiola full-back.
Rodri (6/10):
A rasping volley was again stopped by the resolute Milenkovic-Savic. A solid if unspectacular hour as he gets his sea legs back under him.
Tijjani Reijnders (7/10):
The red card allowed him the freedom to make darting runs from midfield. Almost forced Politano to turn the ball into his own net.
Phil Foden (8/10):
A beautiful turn and lofted pass to set up Haaland's goal. Went looking for work throughout. Signs he could be returning to his brilliant best.
Bernardo Silva (6/10):
Some classy touches and clever passes. Could not find that one incisive ball in the first half. Other stars provided the telling contributions.
Jeremy Doku (8/10):
A frightening proposition to defend one-on-one. Danced past four Napoli defenders to take his goal.
Erling Haaland (7/10):
Drew the red card challenge as he broke towards Napoli's goal. Nodded the breakthrough goal instinctively.
Subs & Manager
Nico Gonzalez (5/10):
Back in his role as Rodri's understudy. Kept thing ticking over after the hour mark.
Savinho (6/10):
A like-for-like replacement for Doku. Looked threatening in one-on-one situations.
Nathan Ake (N/A):
Came on with the game already decided. Little to do.
Rico Lewis (N/A):
Nothing to report.
Oscar Bobb (N/A):
Late second-half substitute. Had little time, or need, to affect the game.
Pep Guardiola (7/10):
The breakthrough came at the perfect time to stave off any nerves. He will be thankful that he had the chance to rest key players in the second half ahead of Sunday's Premier League showdown with Arsenal.
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kjs86
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Sep 19 2025, 06:49 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma: 7
Didn’t have a great deal to do, with City controlling the game. But inspired confidence in between the posts.
Abdukodir Khusanov: 7
Started at right-back and did a decent job in defence. Needs to offer more going forward.
Ruben Dias: 7
Was rarely threatened at the back but didn’t have much luck crossing the ball when taking the opportunity to drive forward.
Josko Gvardiol: 8
Always a huge presence in the Manchester City backline. Strong on the ball but doesn’t always pick the right pass.
Nico O'Reilly: 7
Headed an effort towards goal just before half time as City won a corner. Assured at the back.
Rodri: 8
Controlled the midfield as usual. City always look much more assured with the Spaniard in the team and he will be key for the team this season. Was taken off on the hour mark to rest up for Sunday's trip to Arsenal.
Bernardo Silva: 6
Struggled to get into the match and may be handed less game time as the months roll by this season.
Phil Foden: 8
Had fans purring with a through ball to Haaland before the Norwegian was fouled by Di Lorenzo. Created some good chances and looked dangerous throughout.
Tijjani Reijnders: 7
Forced an early save from Vanja Milinkovic-Savic and was presented with an opportunity with a free-kick soon afterwards but saw his effort deflected. Has struggled to offer the same attacking output he displayed in City's Premier League opener against Wolves last month.
Jeremy Doku: 7
Attempted to weave his way round defenders and set up chances for his team-mates. Lacked quality in the final third at times but produced a moment of magic to grab his side’s second goal of the evening.
Erling Haaland: 8
Would have been clean through on goal if he hadn’t been fouled by Di Lorenzo, with the Italian handed his marching orders for the challenge. Was starved of chances but then pounced with a header to open the scoring.
Substitutions
Nico Gonzalez: 7
Came on for Rodri and kept things ticking over as City eased to victory.
Savinho: 6
Replaced Jeremy Doku just after the Belgium international bagged City’s second goal.
Rico Lewis: 6
Came on for Tijjani Reijnders with nine minutes remaining as Guardiola made a trio of late substitutions.
Nathan Ake: 6
On for Josko Gvardiol ahead of City’s encounter with Arsenal.
Oscar Bobb: 6
Was handed 10 minutes up front in the place of Haaland.
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kjs86
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Sep 19 2025, 06:50 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma – 6.5/10Rarely troubled but sharp when called upon. Claimed a few high balls confidently and made a key first-half save.
Abdukodir Khusanov – 7.5/10Composed beyond his years, learning to balance aggression with poise. Handled Napoli’s counters well and pushed forward intelligently.
Rúben Dias – 6.5/10Steady but less assured on the ball than his fellow defenders. Relied more on physical duels than distribution.
Joško Gvardiol – 7.5/10Impeccable with his passing and nearly scored just before half-time with a fierce strike. Rarely misplaced a step.
Nico O’Reilly – 7/10The youngster contained Politano effectively and dovetailed well with Doku down the flank. Mature display.
Rodri – 7/10Still short of full sharpness but vital in maintaining balance. Often dropped into defence, recycled possession smoothly before being withdrawn early.
Bernardo Silva – 7/10Sought spaces between the lines but found Lobotka a stubborn opponent. Industrious if not incisive.
Tijjani Reijnders – 7/10Energetic box-to-box presence. Went close with a blocked effort early in the second half. Functional rather than spectacular.
Phil Foden – 8/10 (Man of the Match)The architect of City’s breakthrough. His delicate lofted assist for Haaland was exquisite, and he knitted attacks together all evening.
Jeremy Doku – 7.5/10Quiet in the first half but electric after the interval. His goal summed up his fearless style, beating men with ease before finishing.
Erling Haaland – 7/10Won the foul that saw Di Lorenzo dismissed. Limited by Beukema’s tenacity but still decisive with a perfectly cushioned header.
Substitutes:
Nico González – 6/10: Slotted into midfield calmly, kept possession ticking.
Savinho – 6/10: Injected energy and direct running, good cameo.
Nathan Aké – 4/10: Added late defensive cover; little to note.
Oscar Bobb – 4/10: Gained minutes, limited involvement.
Rico Lewis – 4/10: Introduced late, minimal impact.
This post has been edited by kjs86: Sep 19 2025, 07:06 AM
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kjs86
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Sep 19 2025, 06:52 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma – 6/10
Remained alert when relied upon, which was seldom the case, Donnarumma pulled off some crucial saves.
Abdukodir Khusanov – 7/10
Despite his age, Khusanov's performance was littered with composure. That said, he remained aggressive in his approach, proving that the two can mutually exist.
Ruben Dias – 6/10
Far less comfortable on the ball compared to his fellow defenders.
Josko Gvardiol – 7/10
Incredibly accurate with his passing, Gvardiol didn't put a foot wrong. The Croat's shot just before the break was whiskers away from rustling the net, too.
Nico O'Reilly – 7/10
The youngster dealt with the attacking threat of Politano well while also linking up well with Doku on the left flank.
Rodri – 6/10
Still not fully fit, he often dropped in as an extra centre-half but, as usual, kept things ticking well in the middle. Subbed 15 minutes into the second half.
Bernardo Silva – 6/10
You could see that he wanted to pick up those pockets of space but Lobotka was often first to the ball.
Tijjani Reijnders – 6/10
Had a shot early in the second half blocked and his overall performance was far from convincing.
Phil Foden – 8.5/10 (Man of the Match)
Fantastic in his passing, Foden was heavily involved in City's brightest moments and a lot of credit for their opener needs to go to the Englishman, whose ball was perfect.
Jeremy Doku – 7/10
Doku enjoyed a quiet first half and plenty of attempted crosses into the box were blocked. The Belgian did have moments where he would effortlessly shimmy around a Napoli defender. Much brigher in the second 45.
Erling Haaland – 6/10
The Norway striker's teasing run behind Di Lorenzo drew the foul that saw the Napoli man sent off. Limited thanks to Beukema's performance. His header opened the scoring.
Sub – Nico Gonzalez (60') – /10
City's first substitute of the encounter, the Spaniard kept things simple in the middle of the park.
Sub – Savinho (69') – /10
Adding a layer of zest to City's attack, Savinho prodded over and over again. He looked lively!
Sub – Nathan Ake (80') – 3/10
Added extra experience at the back.
Sub – Oscar Bobb (80') – 3/10
Good to see Bobb get some minutes in the legs.
Sub – Rico Lewis (80') – 3/10
Very little involvement.
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kjs86
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Sep 19 2025, 06:56 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma 7 - Made a fine save to thwart Rasmus Hojlund in the first half. Had little to do when the visitors went down to 10.
Abdukodir Khusanov 7 - Settled into right-back role nicely. Lacks an edge going forward but resolute and smart off the ball.
Ruben Dias 6 - A quiet night for City's defensive lynchpin, who spent most of the game camped in the Napoli half.
Josko Gvardiol 7 - Has become a legitimate goal threat since joining but back in a central position here. A classy player who was rarely troubled.
Nico O'Reilly 6 - Becoming more and more trusted by Guardiola. Never lets City down and was bright down the left.
Rodri 7 - Bossed things for an hour before being withdrawn. As always, simply oozes class.
Bernardo Silva 6 - Quiet night for City's chief orchestrator. Popped up everywhere against the 10 men of Napoli.
Tijjani Reijnders 7 - Some neat footwork in the penalty area nearly led to a fine goal. Continues to look like a shrewd pick up.
Phil Foden 8 - Link up with Haaland for the goal is another encouraging sign after the attacking midfielder's stellar showing in the derby. Lovely assist.
Jeremy Doku 8 - A constant threat and deserved his goal after a mesmerising run. Ice-cool finish from an attacker growing in confidence.
Erling Haaland 7 - Continued his electric start to the season with another goal. Was always going to be him that broke the deadlock.
Subs
Nico Gonzalez 6 - Was steady and solid after being brought on for Rodri for the final 30 minutes.
Savinho 6 - Didn't really give Napoli any headaches after coming on. Then again, he didn't really need to.
Nathan Ake 5 - A late introduction as Guardiola wrapped his stars up in cotton wool for the big match vs Arsenal.
Rico Lewis 5 - Another late substitute introduced to see the game out.
Oscar Bobb 5 - Exciting young forward also didn't really get a chance to impact a game that was already won.
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kjs86
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Sep 19 2025, 06:57 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma-6/10: Made one good save and that was it for Donnarumma for the night. Impossible to rate a goalkeeper who had very little to do after 20 minutes.
Abdukodir Khusanov-7.5/10: Played well again. Defended well and got forward well when he could.
Ruben Dias-7/10: Did what he had to do well throughout the game.
Josko Gvardiol-7/10: Another cool and composed performance from Gvardiol. Didn’t have much defending to do but he was good in possession.
Nico O’Reilly-7/10: Another good performance from O’Reilly. He is growing into an important player for Pep Guardiola’s side.
Rodri-8/10: I thought he was Manchester City’s best player for the hour he was on the pitch. Snuffed out any Napoli threat with ease and was good on the ball. Is slowly getting back to his best.
Bernardo Silva-8.5/10: I thought Bernardo was brilliant. He worked tirelessly for his team and was a threat going forward. A proper captain’s shift from Bernardo.
Tijjani Reijnders-7/10: His best performance since his Premier League debut against Wolves. Got forward well, although he must tidy up some of his passing.
Phil Foden-8.5/10: Another brilliant performance from Foden. His pass to set up Haaland’s goal showed everything that makes Foden such a special player. He looks to be back to his best.
Jeremy Doku-8.5/10: Another quality performance from Doku. Was a constant threat to the Napoli defence and his goal was sublime.
Erling Haaland-7.5/10: Grabbed a goal and played well before being substituted.
Substitutes
Nico-6/10: Kept possession well after coming on for Rodri.
Savinho-6/10: Tried to make something happening on the left wing after coming on.
Nathan Ake-N/A: Not on long enough to mark.
Oscar Bobb-N/A: Not on long enough to mark.
Rico Lewis-N/A: Not on long enough to mark.
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TSps3 fanboy
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Sep 19 2025, 09:13 AM
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New Member
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howyoulikethat
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Sep 21 2025, 10:36 PM
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same exact lineup as the CL game agst Napoli
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kjs86
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Sep 22 2025, 12:08 AM
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New Member
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Starting XI: Donnarumma, Khusanov, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly, Rodri, Silva, Reijnders, Foden, Doku, Haaland
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kjs86
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Sep 22 2025, 05:42 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma – 6/10
Was set to receive a 7.5 rating but showed great misjudgement for Martinelli’s late goal by stepping out of the six-yard box to be chipped for the leveller. Should have done better for the rich experience he has.
Abdukodir Khusanov – 8/10
City’s best defender since the international break by a country mile. Assured, physical, dominant and pulls no punches. Unfortunate to go off at half-time with what looked like an ankle injury.
Ruben Dias – 7/10
He has his shaky moments but commanded a backline in what was a very solid defensive performance for City, especially considering the visitors successfully defended a one-goal lead for over 80 minutes.
Josko Gvardiol – 6.5/10
Failed to follow Martinelli for Arsenal’s injury-time goal but Donnarumma was also heavily to blame for City failing to pick up all three points. Solid otherwise and did a fine job to help O’Reilly deal with Madueke and Saka throughout.
Nico O’Reilly – 7/10
Having bullied Bryan Mbuemo in the Manchester derby, O’Reilly was given a greater challenge against the likes of Madueke and Saka on Sunday but he did well and though Arsenal posed their greatest attacking threat from their right wing, O’Reilly never looked out of his depth.
Rodri – 7/10
Calm, assured and still getting back to his best.
Bernardo Silva – 7/10
His work in winding up half of the Arsenal squad caught the eye as he picked up a yellow card following an altercation with Leandro Trossard in the first half. Workhorse as ever, Silva set the tone for City from the off and ran his socks off.
Tijjani Reijnders – 7/10
One of his better performances of late as he set up Haaland for the opener and made some decent strides forward with the ball in the second-half as City soaked the pressure and kept Arsenal away from their half.
Phil Foden – 7/10
No star moments as such but there is value in seeing Foden start three games in a week. He’s looked sharp of late and is back playing with a smile on his face – that’s all that matters for now.
Jeremy Doku – 8.5/10 (MOTM)
Absolutely incredible, he’s clearly worked on his end product and fitness over the summer because Doku is improving significantly with every start and after starring against United and Napoli this week, he terrorised Arsenal’s defence from start to finish with countless runs and strides into the Gunners back.
Erling Haaland – 8/10
Should have put away a glorious chance made by Doku in the second-half, which would have put the game to bed but did score effortlessly after 10 minutes to round off a ruthless team counter. Seven goals in his first six games of the season. Not bad, eh?
Substitutes-
Matheus Nunes – 7.5/10
Nunes has his flaws when defending but he provided an assured outlet at right-back for City in a very demanding and exhausting half of football.
Nico Gonzalez – 7/10
Helped to keep the one-goal lead intact and drove forward when he could. He was at no fault for the goal conceded.
Nathan Ake – 6.5/10
Bombed forward after City conceded and helped man the gates when City were still leading, though he was in part at fault for the injury-time leveller.
Savinho – N/A
John Stones – N/A
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kjs86
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Sep 22 2025, 05:47 AM
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New Member
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Donnarumma: Slowed the game down at every opportunity and stopped anything that came his way. Excellent. 8
Khusanov: Terrific whenever there was a sniff of danger down his side, quickly and calmly taking control. A blow to lose him at half-time. 8
Dias: Kept Gyokeres quiet and also kept City going through the 90 to keep their discipline. 8
Gvardiol: Apart from one slip that let Eze nick the ball when City were attacking, he was very good again - especially in the air. Undone at the last though. 6
O'Reilly: Everything Madueke threw at him he coped with, and Saka didn't fare any better. Terrific again from the youngster. 8
Rodri: An unusual game in which City barely had possession and he tired in the second half but a real positive to play again. 7
Reijnders: Inch-perfect for the goal, and put himself in the way of a few Arsenal attacks at the right time. 7
Foden: Couldn't get on the ball enough to influence the game that way but did do a hell of a lot of running to keep City going. 7
Silva: A performance that a family newspaper will struggle to convey without asterisks, but he was excellent all day at aggravating Arsenal. 7
Doku: Drifted inside and was invaluable in the second half to keep possession and carry it up the field when Arsenal were on top. 8
Haaland: Took his goal superbly well and his workrate was excellent, even if he should have done better with his second-half chance. 8
Substitutes
Nunes (for Khusanov, 46) A few touches to raise heartrates in the away end but he was mostly very good. 7
Ake (for Foden, 68) Dealt with Gyokeres well and City didn't lose anything for him coming on. 7
Gonzalez (for Haaland, 76) Got stuck in straightaway. 7
Stones (for O'Reilly, 88) No time
Savinho (for Doku, 88) No time
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kjs86
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Sep 22 2025, 05:49 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma (7/10):
The former Paris Saint-Germain ace proved he is not an easy nut to crack with some strong saves from powerful strikes. Nothing he could do about the equaliser, though.
Abdukodir Khusanov (6/10):
Got into some good tussles with Leandro Trossard but picked up a knock or two and did not return for the second half.
Ruben Dias (7/10):
The Portugal international was back to somewhere not far off his reassuring best for City. Won a lot of headers and didn't look like making a mistake.
Josko Gvardiol (7/10):
Harried and hassled Viktor Gyokeres and never really gave the former Sporting CP striker much of a sniff in attack. But he was, arguably, at fault for Arsenal's goal due to his high line.
Nico O'Reilly (7/10):
Was calm and composed when facing off against Noni Madueke at left back. Bukayo Saka didn't get much of a tune out of him, either.
Rodri (7/10):
City's midfield looks so much more secure with him in it, which is not surprising since he is the current Ballon d'Or holder.
Tijjani Reijnders (7/10):
Despite Gary Neville thinking he had held on to the ball for too long, the Dutchman timed his assist to perfection. His bursts of pace into Arsenal's half caused them problems.
Bernardo Silva (7/10):
The wily Portuguese seemed to repeatedly make the right decisions at the right time. He covered a lot of the ground, both in attack and defence, and did a job out wide and in the centre of the park.
Jeremy Doku (8/10):
The Belgian livewire is showing signs of more substance to his style, with his quick feet and acceleration giving Arsenal a headache or two. Drove out from defence to ease the pressure on his side, too.
Erling Haaland (8/10):
Two superb touches. One to set himself and the second to stroke the ball into the corner for City's opener. Showed Gabriel Magalhaes a clean pair of heels, too. Could have added a second but a very good outing overall.
Phil Foden (5/10):
This is a player who is quite different from the one from two years ago. Things aren't falling for him as easily, and he is creating less magic, so as a result, he appears to be putting in more work off the ball to make up for it.
Subs & Manager
Matheus Nunes (6/10):
Came on at the break for the injured Khusanov, and while he was full of running, the Portuguese repeatedly lost his footing.
Nathan Ake (5/10):
Was brought on to add more solidity as City moved to a back five when he came on, but allowed Martinelli to get away from him at the end.
Nico Gonzalez (5/10):
The midfielder replaced Haaland but offered far less than the Norwegian international.
John Stones (6/10):
Didn't do a great deal when introduced.
Savinho (7/10):
Helped see the game out with some good hold-up play.
Pep Guardiola (7/10):
City have been all too open and easy to beat in the league this season. But the way they maintained their defensive shape, for most of the game, showed that they can learn from their mistakes. Was he too defensive? Maybe. Should he have subbed Haaland? Probably not considering he could have killed the game off. But City do look better at the back.
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kjs86
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Sep 22 2025, 05:52 AM
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New Member
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Gianluigi Donnarumma - 8
Consistently slowed the game down and successfully defended incoming threats until the late goal. Outstanding.
Abdukodir Khusanov - 8
Exceptional whenever danger loomed on his flank, swiftly and calmly taking control. His loss at half-time was unfortunate.
Ruben Dias - 8
Successfully silenced Gyokeres and maintained City's discipline throughout the match.
Josko Gvardiol - 6
Aside from one lapse that allowed Eze to steal the ball during a City attack, he performed well, particularly in aerial duels. However, he was outplayed at the end.
Nico O'Reilly - 8
Managed to handle everything Madueke threw at him and Saka didn't fare any better. Another excellent performance from the young player.
Rodri - 7
In a game where City had little possession, he showed signs of fatigue in the second half but it was a positive to see him play again.
Tijani Reijnders - 7
Perfectly timed for the goal and managed to thwart a few Arsenal attacks at crucial moments.
Phil Foden - 7
Despite not having enough ball possession to influence the game, his relentless running kept City's momentum alive.
Bernardo Silva - 7
His performance was so exceptional that it would be challenging for a family newspaper to describe without using asterisks, but he was outstanding in provoking Arsenal throughout the match.
Jeremy Doku - 8
He moved inside and became indispensable in the second half, maintaining possession and advancing the ball upfield when Arsenal were dominating.
Erling Haaland - 8
Scored his goal brilliantly and demonstrated an excellent work ethic, even though he could have performed better with his chance in the second half
Substitutes
Matheus Nunes - 7
Made a few touches that caused some anxiety among the away fans, but overall he played very well.
Nathan Ake - 7
Handled Gyokeres effectively and City didn't suffer from his substitution.
Nico Gonzalez - 7
Immediately got involved in the action.
John Stones - n/a
A late addition.
Savinho - n/a
A late addition.
This post has been edited by kjs86: Sep 22 2025, 06:36 AM
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kjs86
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Sep 22 2025, 05:54 AM
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New Member
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GK: Gianluigi Donnarumma - 7/10
Made a few good, important saves and commanded his area very well, punching away and claiming a lot of crosses.
RB: Abdukodir Khusanov - 7/10
Had a very solid performance and pretty much completely shut down Arsenal's left-hand side. The young defender was substituted at half-time after seemingly suffering an injury late into the first half.
CB: Ruben Dias - 7/10
Hardly had a thing to do in possession of the ball, but managed to deal with Gyokeres well and produced some important clearances.
CB: Josko Gvardiol - 7.5/10
Helped O'Reilly out a lot when Arsenal broke down their right flank. Gvardiol was pretty much flawless defensively and also managed to break out of defence and start attacks at times.
LB: Nico O'Reilly - 7/10
Had some shaky moments when up against Madueke in the first half, but stayed resilient and didn't really put a foot wrong defensively.
CM: Rodri - 7.5/10
Worked very hard in the midfield, and like his centre-backs, Rodri produced a lot of important clearances. Although he didn't see as much of the ball as he typically does, the Spaniard was effective with it and managed to get his side out of some sticky situations.
CM: Tijjani Reijnders - 8/10
Played a key part in City's goal, as he provided the assist for Haaland and pretty much ran the length of the pitch to counter-attack. Outside of the assist, Reijnders didn't have much involvement in the match, but when he did, he was pretty tidy.
CM: Phil Foden - 6/10
Hardly had a thing to do during the match as City didn't enjoy too much possession.
RW: Bernardo Silva - 6.5/10
Although he played on the right wing, Silva contributed more defensively than he did in an attacking sense. The Portuguese international worked his socks off and tracked back to help his side out plenty of times.
ST: Erling Haaland - 8/10 (Man of the Match)
The most important player on the pitch. Although City surrendered a lot of possession, they looked dangerous pretty much every time they counter-attacked and that is mainly because of Haaland's pace on the break. The big forward took his goal very well and proved to play a pivotal part in the match.
LW: Jeremy Doku - 8/10
Another incredibly bright showing for the Belgian. Doku pretty much tortured Timber for the time he was on the pitch and was City's main attacking outlet, especially on the counter.
SUB: Matheus Nunes - 6.5/10
Didn't have anything to do in possession of the ball, but he stayed organised and made City very hard to break down.
SUB: Nathan Ake - N/A
Didn't do much after coming on.
SUB: Nico Gonzalez - N/A
Didn't do much after coming on.
SUB: John Stones - N/A
Didn't do much after coming on.
SUB: Savinho - N/A
Didn't do much after coming on.
This post has been edited by kjs86: Sep 22 2025, 06:37 AM
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kjs86
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Sep 22 2025, 05:55 AM
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Gianluigi Donnarumma-7/10:
Made several straightforward saves and commanded his area well. The only knock on his performance was his positioning for Martinelli’s equaliser.
Abdukodir Khusanov-7.5/10:
Khusanov was superb defensively in the first half. His recovery pace was key to him snuffing out several Arsenal attacks. The hope is that he hasn’t sustained a troublesome foot injury.
Ruben Dias-7.5/10:
I thought he led Manchester City’s defence well. Looks to be getting back into top form.
Josko Gvardiol-7.5/10: -
A good performance from Gvardiol and he put in some crucial challenges in his 100th appearance for Manchester City.
Nico O’Reilly-7/10:
Defended well against Noni Madueke and Bukayo Saka, although he did have his testing moments. A good performance from O’Reilly in a big game.
Rodri-7/10:
Like his team he defended well. His positioning out of possession was top notch.
Bernardo Silva-8.5/10:
His workrate over the 90 minutes was superb. Did all he could for his team.
Tijjani Reijnders-7.5/10:
Grabbed an assist for Haaland’s goal with a brilliant driving run and pass. I thought he was good in winning his duels although he was sloppy in possession on occasions.
Phil Foden-7/10:
Foden didn’t affect the game in possession as he would’ve liked. But he did the defensive work his team needed until he was taken off in the 68th minute. That is why he gets a 7/10.
Jeremy Doku-8/10:
Offered a threat in the second half on the counter. Played in Haaland and almost set up another goal for his team. A quality performance from Doku.
Erling Haaland-8/10:
Scored the opener and gave everything physically before he was taken off. Haaland was up for the fight against the Arsenal defence, and the growth in his game is clear to see.
Substitutes
Matheus Nunes-7.5/10:
Came on at halftime for Khusanov and defended brilliantly. Hopefully he can take some confidence out of that performance.
Nathan Ake- N/A:
Not on long enough to mark.
Nico-N/A:
Not on long enough to mark.
Savinho-N/A:
Not on long enough to mark.
John Stones-N/A:
Not on long enough to mark.
This post has been edited by kjs86: Sep 22 2025, 06:01 AM
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kjs86
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Sep 22 2025, 05:57 AM
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Gianluigi Donnarumma (7/10): Commanding presence, denying Eze and Madueke. Beaten only by a deft lob from Martinelli.
Abdukodir Khusanov (6.5/10): Battled well against Trossard but forced off injured at half-time.
Rúben Dias (7.5/10): Assured in the air and steady in his defensive work. Rarely looked troubled.
Joško Gvardiol (7.5/10): Shackled Gyökeres effectively, though his positioning played Martinelli onside late.
Nico O’Reilly (7/10): Disciplined display, keeping both Madueke and later Saka under control.
Rodri (7/10): The midfield anchor, dictating tempo and halting Arsenal’s transitions.
Tijjani Reijnders (7.5/10): Drove forward decisively to create City’s opener. His bursts unsettled Arsenal’s midfield.
Bernardo Silva (7/10): Intelligent movement and ball retention across midfield and wide areas.
Jeremy Doku (8/10): City’s most dangerous outlet. His direct running unsettled Timber throughout.
Erling Haaland (8.5/10): Clinical finish for the opener, constant menace until his substitution.
Phil Foden (6/10): A subdued performance, offering industry but little invention.
Subs:
Matheus Nunes (6.5/10): Lively after coming on, though his footing let him down.
Nathan Aké (5.5/10): Struggled to contain Martinelli late on, leading to the goal.
Nico González (5/10): Replaced Haaland but lacked the sharpness demanded from him both offensively & defensively.
John Stones (6/10): Added stability but little attacking thrust during City’s late buildup patterns.
Savinho (7/10): Positive cameo, relieved pressure with neat hold-up play.
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kjs86
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Sep 22 2025, 05:59 AM
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GK:Gianluigi Donnarumma
He made two good saves at the back but couldn’t do much about Martinelli’s excellent chip in injury time.
RB: Abdokadir Khusanov – 6.5/10
Khusanov cleared the danger when he could, but offered very little going forward.
CB: Ruben Dias – 6/10
He put his foot through the ball when required, but failed to keep a clean sheet this evening.
CB: Josko Gvardiol – 7/10
Gvardiol made a lot of important clearances inside his half, but failed to keep Martinelli quiet late in the game.
LB: Nico O’Reilly – 7/10
He performed his defensive responsibilities well and made one decent run with the ball.
CDM: Rodri – 7/10
The Spaniard anchored the midfield with conviction but lacked quality inside the Arsenal half.
RW: Phil Foden – 6.5/10
He came back to defend when needed and was quiet going forward.
CM: Bernardo Silva – 6.5/10
Silva worked his socks off at both ends of the pitch.
CM: Tijjani Reijnders – 7.5/10
Reijnders managed to catch the eye at times and secured an assist for setting up Haaland’s early goal.
LW: Jeremy Doku – 7.5/10
He made a handful of driving runs with the ball and was a great outlet for Man City on the counter.
ST: Erling Haaland – 7/10
Haaland was a real handful for the Arsenal defenders and managed to score in the ninth minute with a clinical finish.
Substitutes:
RB: Matheus Nunes – 6.5/10
He was solid at the back.
CB: Nathan Ake – 6/10
Ake added some bite and steel to Guardiola’s defence.
This post has been edited by kjs86: Sep 22 2025, 06:00 AM
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TSps3 fanboy
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Sep 22 2025, 09:37 AM
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New Member
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