Manchester City picked up all three points at the King Power Stadium on Saturday in a game of fine margins.
Pep Guardiola’s men were forced to be patient against a low Leicester block, and without the absent Erling Haaland, they found it difficult to find penetration. Fortunately for City, Kevin De Bruyne was present, and he made the difference with a superb free-kick just three minutes after the break.
The Belgian curled the free-kick on off the post, and it was a much-needed break for City, who were left frustrated throughout the first half by a solid Foxes backline.
In truth, that continued after the goal, too, with Leicester continuing to defend deep, remaining patient and hoping for chances on the break, even after going one down. But City’s defence remained measured and concentrated to keep the home side’s attack in check.
Youri Tielemans came the closest for Leicester, with Ederson forced to produce a fine save to keep out the Belgian’s excellent volley following a corner. But other than that, City produced a fine defensive performance, and paired with De Bruyne’s magic with the free-kick, they did enough to return from the East Midlands with all three points.
Here we take a look at how each player performed in the player ratings.
The Belgian curled the free-kick on off the post, and it was a much-needed break for City, who were left frustrated throughout the first half by a solid Foxes backline.
5. Joao Cancelo - 7
Created space on attacks by getting into advanced areas. Could have looked after the ball a little better at times, but a solid performance.
6. Rodri - 8
Very involved from the start with some nice, incisive passes against a low Leicester block. Set the rhythm, as usual.
7. Ilkay Gundogan - 6
Steady in the middle but couldn't receive the ball as much as he'd have liked in between the lines. Leicester were compact at the back, and Gundogan was left frustrated.
8. Bernardo Silva - 4
Forced into some rash crosses by a crowded final third. Could have done with showing more patience. Dispossessed too often. A frustrating day for Silva.