The winger revelled in his right-wing position and caused trouble for Sunderland left-back Patrick van Aanholt from the outset, who fouled City’s number seven in the box after three minutes.
Sergio Aguero duly obliged to slot home from the penalty spot and Sterling continued to dazzle down the flank throughout the game.
Twitter reaction
Media reaction
Mark Brus of The Metro believes Sterling has cemented a place in Guardiola’s team after yesterday’s performance.
He wrote: “The former Liverpool man was more involved in City’s build-up play than he often found himself last season, drifting inwards and showing he can slot in well to tiki-taka football.
“Goals and assists will need to come, but for now it was a solid start from Sterling, and one to suggest he surely has a place in Guardiola’s team for the season ahead.”
ESPN’s David Mooney also heaped praise on the England international: “It looked like a rejuvenated Sterling under Guardiola, and he was one of the big positives from the game.
“His confidence seems to have returned and he was excellent chasing the ball down and taking on his man.”
