Manchester City took on Middlesbrough at The Etihad Stadium. It was business as usual for the Citizens for most of the game as they dominated proceedings and scored a goal through Sergio Aguero. They couldn’t make their lead count at the end of the game though as they struggled to add to their solitary goal and were punished late by Middlesbrough who scored through a Marten De Roon header in injury time. Here are the Manchester City player ratings for the game –
Formation – 4-1-4-1
Claudio Bravo– 7
Had few saves to make but made it count when he was presented with challenges. Saved well from Negredo and Forshaw but will be disappointed that he didn’t do more to avoid De Roon’s goal.
Pablo Zabaleta – 7
A performance reminiscent of a younger Zabaleta. Got forward with aplomb at every opportunity and was a constant threat down the right hand side.
John Stones- 6
Showed good composure on the ball. Sprayed passes well and headed wide from a Silva corner. Stones is slowly starting to look like the completed piece at Manchester City, but is still error prone.
Aleksandr Kolarov– 6
Was again played in a center back role. Did well and had a drive saved well by Victor Valdes.
Gael Clichy- 6
Solid display from the Frenchman on his recall. Passed the ball well . Was slightly culpable for the equalizer as he lost goal scorer De Roon.
Ilkay Gundogan – 7
The German had a few efforts on the night and looked to add to his recent goal scoring tally. Tired towards the end and was brought off for Nolito.
Fernandinho – 8
Fantastic range of passing from the Brazilian. Broke up play well and orchestrated things deep from midfield. Has become a real favorite under Pep.
Kevin de Bruyne– 8 (MOTM)
Was easily the most fluid player on the pitch. Linked up well with his fellow attackers. Delivered a great ball for Aguero’s goal. The Belgian is slowly starting to establish himself as one of City’s most important players with his performances.
David Silva– 8
The Spaniard did well as he was everywhere for Manchester City. Played like his old-self, looked composed on the ball and gave the opposition defenders a hard time with his quick feet and passing.
Jesus Navas- 7
Was unlucky to not score as his effort hit the post. Was a great outlet on the right for City and posed a threat all game with his running and pace. His final ball looked better on the night.
Sergio Aguero–8
Was booked. Continued his hot-streak by scoring his 150th goal for Manchester City. Had several chances throughout the game.
Substitutes –
Nolito– 6 (Gundogan 74)
The Spaniard didn’t impact the game much after his inroduction.
Alex Garcia – N/A( Jesus Navas 86)
Came on too late to have an impact on the game.
Kelechi Iheanacho – N/A (Aguero 90)
Came on too late to have any kind of impact on the game.
Subs unused – Caballero, Kompany, Sane, Maffeo