Pep Guardiola highlighted the positive impact of a settled back four after City’s 3-0 win at Crystal Palace.

An Erling Haaland brace and drilled Phil Foden finish made the difference at Selhurst Park, despite the in-form opposition giving as good as they got for much of the game.

Known for long balls into the box and attacking set pieces, Palace entered the weekend in fourth place in the Premier League after 15 games.

And although they threw everything at us, we held firm for our seventh clean sheet of the season.

Crystal Palace 0-3 City | Match report

Guardiola has seemingly settled on a preferred back four in recent weeks, with Matheus Nunes, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol and Nico O’Reilly the regulars ahead of goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, he said that core group are forming a dependable bond.

“We are learning a lot for these types of balls, winning them, make short passes and after we can run and we are improving a lot in recent weeks about this concept. Little details,” he said.

“All four they were there. They played together a lot lately for obvious reasons, when you play together, the connection is important. We can rotate in certain positions but as much as defenders are there it’s important.

“Pace and composure from both full-backs and the leadership from Ruben. Ruben is an incredible leader. Consistent and no injuries.

“His professionalism the day after or the day before, and how he leads his mates and an incredible signing for many years. He’s a real captain and real leader.

“Again, Josko made a top game with no mistakes with the ball or without and this is a step he has to take.”

Watch the press conference at the top of the page...

City v Brentford tickets available

Tickets for City’s Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Brentford on Wednesday 17 December are now available on general sale.

Having won this competition four times under Pep Guardiola and eight times in total, we have a storied history in the League Cup.

Buy tickets here

Victories over Huddersfield and Swansea have brought us to the last eight of this year’s competition, where we’ll face Keith Andrews’ side.

With a semi-final place to play for, it’s set to be an exciting night at the Etihad Stadium.

And with prices from £22.50 for adults and £5 for Under-18s, you can get your tickets now!