Manchester City enjoyed a remarkable 24 hours as they capitalised on Arsenal’s unexpected defeat to move three points clear at the top of the Premier League before the international break.
Arsenal suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat away to Brighton on Saturday, opening the door for City to take advantage of the opportunity when they hosted Sunderland the following day.
City responded with a thrilling 5-3 victory at the Etihad Stadium, maintaining their perfect start to the campaign and moving to the summit of the Premier League. The result means the club have now won seven consecutive matches in all competitions...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The victory also marked an encouraging start to Enzo Maresca’s reign as Manchester City manager following his appointment as Pep Guardiola’s successor. Despite the pressure that came with taking over from a manager who enjoyed remarkable success at the club, Maresca has overseen a strong opening to the season.
City produced an attacking display against Sunderland, with Antoine Semenyo playing a major role by scoring twice and providing an assist. Rayan Cherki also impressed with his creative performance, while Enzo Fernandez opened his account for the club.
Erling Haaland also found the net late in the game, completing his scoring record against Sunderland. The goal means the Norwegian has now scored against every Premier League team he has faced.
Despite the five goals and the victory, City’s defensive performance provided some concern. Sunderland scored three times and created several opportunities, exposing areas that Maresca will want his team to improve when domestic football resumes.
Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey scored a hat trick despite ending up on the losing side, while the visitors created a number of dangerous chances throughout the contest. City therefore left the game with three points but also with defensive issues to address.
Maresca acknowledged that his team could have defended better, particularly for two of Sunderland’s goals, but was pleased with the way his players responded to a difficult challenge and found a way to secure victory.
The result leaves Manchester City three points clear at the top of the Premier League heading into the international break. Their next major test will come after the break when they travel to face unbeaten Liverpool.
For Arsenal, the defeat provides an early setback in their title defence, while City have taken full advantage of the opportunity to establish an early lead at the top of the table.
