Man City started their search for supremacy with a hard fought 2-0 Win away from home at the Amex Stadium against newly promoted side Brighton and Hove Albion.
The first half was rather frustrating for Pep’s men as they struggled to break down a well organized Brighton side.
They eventually opened the scoring midway through the second half after David Silva set up Sergio Aguero for his 123rd Premier League goal.
5 minutes later, Fernandinho’s cross aimed towards Gabriel Jesus saw Lewis Dunk get in the way to put the ball in his own net and double City’s advantage.
Brighton made life difficult for City by some dogged defending but City had too much firepower in the end and managed to come out unscathed.
Here are the Man City players’ ratings:
Ederson Moraes – 6/10
An uncomfortable debut for the Brazilian as he fluffed an early goal kick and dropped one corner. Did not have to save much as Brighton rarely threatened.
Vincent Kompany – 7/10
Typical solid performance from City’s most experienced defender. Rarely troubled by Hemed and co.
John Stones – 7/10
Assured performance from the Englishman as he looks to leave behind the ghosts of last season. Played the ball long out from the back when needed as well.
Nicolas Otamendi – 7/10
The Argentine is drawn into making more challenges than his partners but looked solid while doing so. Again, rarely troubled by a timid Brighton side.
Kyle Walker – 8/10
Fantastic performance by the Englishman which vindicated City’s decision to spend so much money on him. Made some marauding runs down the right flank constantly keeping Brighton left back Markus Suttner busy. He will need to improve his final delivery a bit but other than that solid performance.
Danilo – 7/10
Played out of position at Left wing back so could not produce too many threatening crosses. Less flashy than Walker but an assured display nonetheless.
Fernandinho – 7/10
Had little to do as City’s attacking men carried on with their duties. His floated cross towards Jesus caused Dunk to turn it into his own net giving City a more comfortable 2-0 advantage.
Kevin De Bruyne – 7/10
Was very brave on the ball and looked to make things happen for City. Played a major part in Aguero’s goal where he played it to Silva. His bravery did occasionally cause him to overhit his passes but overall he looked sharp.
David Silva – 6.5/10
The Silky Spaniard saw plenty of the ball and was determined to create chances but Brighton’s well-organized defence did not provide him too many chances to do so.
Sergio Aguero – 8/10
Fluffed a glorious chance by being surprisingly wide off target in the second half before taking his next chance extremely well and opening the scoring for City.
Gabriel Jesus – 8/10
Threatened more than his strike partner throughout the first half. Showed some fabulous touches. Had a goal disallowed for handball and was a bit harshly booked for it. Made some beautiful runs for KDB’s through balls albeit without much success.
Substitutes:
Leroy Sane – 6.5/10
Troubled Brighton with his blistering pace late in the game as The Seagulls seemed to be tired.
Raheem Sterling – N/A
Replaced a tired Jesus late in the game.
Bernardo Silva – N/A
Replaced Aguero surprisingly and tried to get on the ball and make an impression whenever possible in the short time frame he was offered.
