Manchester City’s incredible 23-match unbeaten run in the Champions League group game against the Etihad came to an end with a 2-0 loss to Bayer Leverkusen. City, who would have effectively secured at least a place in the play-offs with a win, were visibly outclassed, and Pep Guardiola’s drastic changes to the squad proved unsuccessful as he made 10 changes to his starting XI.
Their attack was particularly weak, and their defense allowed Alejandro Grimaldo to score the opening goal. Despite making three substitutions at half-time, Leverkusen managed to double their lead thanks to Patrik Schick. Even bringing in Rayan Cherki and Erling Haaland could not get City on the scoreboard. Express Sport assesses and shortlists City players…
Man City vs Leverkusen player ratings
James Trafford – 5
Neither goal could be directly attributed to him, but his performance was far from convincing.
Abdukkodir Kusanov – 5
He showed great control, but was responsible for the goal and was the obvious choice to be substituted as City chased the game.
John Stones – 6
He was arguably the best of the defenders, but he was unable to step forward and influence the game.
Nathan Ake – 4
He looked rusty, caused City to concede goals and couldn’t keep up with the pace of the game.
Rayan Ait Nouri – 4
Leverkusen’s first goal was caught out of position, with too many heavy touches and too many mistakes in passing.
Nico Gonzalez – 6
He was the only player to retain his quota against Newcastle and did not make a single mistake, so he is likely to retain his quota at Leeds as well.
Oscar Bob – 4
Against Leverkusen, he got off to a good start in the first three minutes, but then disappeared and was unable to return after half-time.
Rico Ruiz – 5
They made poor decisions in the final third, failed to support Gonzalez and struggled to control the game.
Tijani Reinders – 5
He took more shots and got closer to the goal, but otherwise he wasn’t able to provide enough assists to Gonzalez.
Savigno – 4
It lasted all of 90 minutes, but it’s hard to pinpoint any significant contributions.
Omar Marmouche – 4
He was more passionate about rallying the crowd than leading the attack, and could hardly contribute.
substitute
Nico O’Reilly (Aito Nouri, 46) – 6
More stable and energetic.
Phil Foden (Lewis, 46) – 6
Great pass through to Haaland.
Doc (Savigno, 46) – 6
It seemed most likely to create something.
Rayan Cherki (Kusanov, 65 years old) – 6
He forced a good save from the free kick.
Erling Haaland (Marmouche, 65) – 5
He missed a good opportunity in front of the goal.
