Manchester City defeated Palermo 3-0 in their last friendly before the new season. Pep Guardiola used most of his star players to make sure the team got the result they wanted.
A first-half goal from Erling Haaland and two second-half goals from Tijjani Reijnders sealed the win for the Cityzens.
The victory also came with the Anglo-Palermitan Trophy, and Guardiola will be pleased with his squad’s performance going into the season.
Here are the player ratings from the match. Some players are looking like they can’t be dropped from Guardiola’s starting eleven, while others will need to improve to get more chances.
Player Rating:
James Trafford – 6/10: The new goalkeeper started slowly but grew in confidence. He didn’t have much to do as City controlled the first half.
Rico Lewis – 7/10: Pep Guardiola on different occasions has praised Rico Lewis’s ability to operate in a tight space. The City Academic graduate showed what he can do with the ball in a more difficult situation against Palermo. He got an assist as he impressed both defensively and when moving forward.
Abdukodir Khusanov – 7/10: He was smart in his challenges and helped keep the defense safe. He is likely to feature more this season.
John Stones – 7.5/10: John Stones was more than just a defender on the pitch, he was a pure joy to watch, looking like his old self. His leadership in defense and skill in attack were clear of every other City player. The club will need to have him fit for the season.
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Rayan Ait-Nouri – 6.5/10: Had a quiet game but was dependable at the back and helped the attack when needed.
Nico – 7/10: The Spain international had a great game. He did his job perfectly and showed Pep Guardiola that he can cover for the injured Rodri. He worked hard in midfield and challenged for every possible ball.
Nico O’Reilly – 6.5/10: Played in midfield and had a solid performance. His ability to play in different positions could help him this season.
Oscar Bobb – 7.5/10: Performed well as a right winger, creating chances and linking up nicely with Rayan Cherki and Lewis.
Rayan Cherki – 8/10: Palermo’s biggest problem in the first half. He was everywhere, creating chances and showing great skill.
Omar Marmoush – 6/10: Played on the left wing and had chances but couldn’t score.
Erling Haaland – 7.5/10: Another season, the same Erling Haaland. the Norwegian striker scored the opener and looked ready for another big season. His fitness and form will be needed by the Pep Guardiola’s men looking to put behind them the setback of the previous season.
Substitutes
Ederson – 6/10: Came on for Trafford in the second half and had little to do.
Matheus Nunes – 7/10: Strong in defense and helpful in attack. He looks set to play an important role this season.
Ruben Dias – 7/10: Solid at the back with good challenges and composure. Dias leadership and ability to coordinate the backline will be vital for the Cityzens this campaign.
Nathan Ake – 6.5/10: Played at left-back and did well. Staying fit will be key for him this season.
Ilkay Gundogan – 7/10: Even with new arrivals, his leadership and skill make him valuable for the team.
Tijjani Reijnders – 9/10: Manchester City might have finally gotten what they missed throughout last season in Tijjani Reijnders. The former AC Milan player was the star of the match. Scored two goals and showed great timing arriving in the box. He could be an important player for the Cityzens in the coming years.
Bernardo Silva – 6/10: As expected, the Manchester City captain was everywhere on the pitch. he was one of the most active players on the pitch and he contributed both in attack and defense as usual.
Savinho – 7.5/10: The Brazilian had a quiet season last campaign, but he may have the best season of his City career in the coming months. He was incredible on the right wing, providing an assist after a great run. Without a doubt, he would be one of the City players to watch out for this campaign.
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Jeremy Doku – 6.5/10: The Belgium international tried to create chances and caused problems for Palermo’s defense in his short time on the pitch. Manchester City supporters may see a different Doku when the season begins.
Divine Mukasa – 7/10: Another talent coming from the City Football Academic. Mukasa was more than impressive on his debut, he got a well-deserved assist and showed he is a player to watch for the future. Can he be the next Phil Foden at City? Only time will tell.
