Two goals from new signing Erling Haaland began Manchester City’s Premier League title defence with a 2-0 win against West Ham in their opening game of the campaign at the London Stadium.
Sunday afternoon’s game began with some early pressure for West Ham after a poor pass from Joao Cancelo, leading to a close headed chance for Michail Antonio.
Kevin De Bruyne looked to have opened the scoring around the half hour mark but the goal was chalked off after Ilkay Gundogan had been offside in the build-up.
City did then take the lead through new signing Erling Haaland who won and converted a penalty following a foul on him by substitute goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.
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The second half started with City leading 1-0 and in search of a second goal to solidify the result.
A second goal did arrive and it came from the same source with Haaland netting again from a smart finish after a wonderful defence-splitting ball from Kevin De Bruyne.
What was at times a tetchy game become a routine controlling performance by City following Haaland’s brace and Pep Guardiola’s side claimed all three points.
The win puts the Premier League champions in fourth position in the table ahead of next weekend’s home game against newly-promoted Bournemouth.
Here's how we rated the players from Manchester City's contest with West Ham United on Sunday afternoon!
Ederson- 8
Coming off the back of an underwhelming campaign, Ederson looked back to his confident best. Keeping an invaluable clean sheet and dealing well with heavy West Ham pressing, the Brazilian looked to be back at a good level.
Kyle Walker- 7
Good to see him back to full fitness and providing an ever-reliable performance at right back. His injuries late last season have clearly not affected his lightning pace which the defender had to show on occasion with some recovery runs.
Ruben Dias- 7.5
Commanding at the back as usual, providing a brilliant last-ditch interception during an early West Ham attack in the second half.
Nathan Ake- 7
Really starting to settle as a starting centre back for the Premier League champions which will have Stones and Laporte looking over their backs.
Joao Cancelo- 6.5
Despite a shaky start and getting a cheap yellow card for showing a lack of maturity after gesturing at the linesman, an enjoyable display offensively, often cutting inside into the midfield to be the difference in build-up play.
Some questions marks will however remain about the Portugal international defensively, as City continue to search for a natural left-back in the transfer window.
Rodri- 7
Ran the midfield with confidence and quality, ensuring that City could play their brand of football to seal a much-needed victory.
Ilkay Gundogan- 7.5
Captaining the side today, Gundogan looked far more energetic than he did for the majority of last season. His clinical pass played in Haaland to win City’s penalty, making the difference in the first half.
Kevin De Bruyne- 8
De Bruyne grew into the game, assisting Haaland for his second with an outstanding defence-splitting ball. This is undoubtedly a sight which City fans will hope is a sign to come for the rest of the season.
Jack Grealish- 6.5
Made some great runs forward but all too often did not show the dynamism or urgency to create the chance, frequently leaving the opportunity to go begging.
Phil Foden- 8
Looked dangerous in the unfamiliar position of right wing. Provided several whipped crosses into the boxes adding extra dynamism to City’s play.
Erling Haaland- 9.5 (MOTM)
His movement was clever, often making darting runs in behind the defence. This eventually paid off late in the first-half as he was brought down when making such a run into the box by Areola, winning his side a penalty. The Norwegian then converted to give City the lead and grab himself a first Premier League goal.
Substitutes:
Bernardo Silva- 6
Started the game amongst questions over his future with the Portuguese star being repeatedly linked with a move to Barcelona. Was only afforded ten minutes on the pitch.
Julian Alvarez- 6
He brings an energy and rapid pace that manages to stand out even in this top quality City attack. Both City fans and Alvarez himself will hope for increasing game time in the coming weeks to see just how much impact this raw talent can have on the Premier League champions.
Riyad Mahrez- N/A
Will have been disappointed not to start the match but Foden’s great performance at right wing proved Guardiola’s selection to be spot on at the London Stadium.
Cole Palmer- N/A
Prem come soon. Always a nice moment to see the academy players get Premier League minutes in the tank but they came too late for the Englishman to have any impact on proceedings.
Kalvin Phillips- N/A
A late debut for the former Leeds United captain. Phillips will hope his opportunities will increase over the season as the fixtures pile up, with Rodri currently cementing his place in centre defensive midfield.
Topics: Manchester City, West Ham United, Premier League
Edward Burnett