Midfield blend
Manuel Pellegrini’s shrewd formation of one holding midfielder behind two further forward was inspired. Fernando mopped up everything in front of the back four and looks extremely sharp. Ahead of him Fernandinho was everywhere, while Yaya Toure was a constant threat given his license to roam forward. That trio took a grip on the game that Sevilla could not loosen and should give City great confidence for the later stages of the competition.
Sterling boost
The young winger moved to joint second with Kevin De Bruyne in City’s scoring charts with six after a well taken goal – his first in the Champions League. The strike was just one aspect of a fine all round display, full of pace, movement and endeavour; he is a player who gets fans to the edge of their seats and with each game he adds to his experience.
Strength in depth
The fact that Kevin De Bruyne replaced Sterling after 73 minutes says it all about the depth of City’s squad. The introduction of Fabian Delph after a lengthy injury lay-off was more cause for celebration – he will be desperate to show City fans what he can bring to the side and he provides fresh legs heading into the hectic winter schedule. When you consider that Sergio Aguero and David Silva should be back in the frame soon the competition for places will be frightening!
Confidence
City played with great assurance against Sevilla and have qualified with two games to spare. The remaining group games should give the perfect platform to play with freedom that is not often afforded in the Champions League. Two more performances like Tuesday night’s and City will be a ball to avoid in the first knock-out stage draw.
Support
The team put in a great performance on the pitch, and high up in the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, the City fans were in great form too! They were bouncing and singing all the way through. In a competition of such fine margins, those fans will help extract every last drop from the players.
