A total masterclass in football left me wondering in Neil Warnock was, in some ways, enjoying the football on display. Certainly this was never going to be a game he and his staff would circle as one which could make or break their season.
So how did the players do in the 5-0 victory? Here are my player ratings for the side who moved to second in the Premier League this weekend:
Ederson - 7.
Had to deal with a powerful back pass from Aymeric Laporte early on. His calmness seemed to help the defensive nerves and that was probably one of the times he was called into action. Cardiff threats were small to none but his hands were sure and balls out precise.
Walker - 7.
Was allowed free reign down the right with no real threat coming the other way.
Otamendi - 7.
Captain towards the end, Nico took his game time to let Guardiola know he had other options at the back. Covering for Laporte was one of the tasks he did very well.
Laporte - 6.
Somewhat fell asleep to Bobby Reids run, which was blocked out by the General. He also had that pass back to Ederson with some real zip on it, which could have put us in the hole early on. That said, he recovered well and as the game went on so his confidence grew.
Delph - 6.
Looked good going forward, but still had a couple of lapses of concentration at the back.
Fernandinho - 7.
Took a yellow for the team, then was substituted for John Stones with fifteen minutes to go. A much better performance individually and collectively from the defensive unit, anchored by the Brazilian.
Gundogan - 8.
Early on the German had a shot which you would have put money on him converting. However he tried to be cute rather than putting his laces through the ball, and the chance was missed. However, and after a one two with Raheem, he redeemed himself with a beautifully taken strike.
Also was on hand in two of the other goals, passing to Aguero for the opener and again for Riyad and City's fourth.
Bernardo - 8.
Cannot say how much I rate this guy. Lively and full of running and cheeky with his moments in front of goal. Assisted in the first before looping a backward header over the Cardiff keeper and into the net for the second.
Sane - 8.
We missed him midweek, and improved with his introduction. On from the start, Leroy injected pace into the side and ran at the Cardiff defenders. Did not get on the score sheet himself but did more than enough in all other aspects.
Sterling - 8.
For all his England woes, Raheem is still regarded by City fans as a talent. His lay off for Gundogan provided the goal of the match. /his contribution, both in running at defenders and providing balls for others, was important.
Aguero - 7.
Scored the goal when it was needed with a first time strike. Unlucky not to get a second, but the guy gets us goals at important times in the game. From his goal, a second quickly followed, and then the third. Prior to that though, City were all dominant outside the box but fluffing the lines at the last moment.
Mahrez (on 61) - 8.
Scored both second half goals and is beginning to relax into the side. Instead of forcing a shot he is now recycling the ball and allowing the natural game to flow. There was no doubting his talent, and that was displayed in the final half an hour he was on the field.
Foden (on 69) - 7.
Slowly getting game time, and the youngster doesn't look out of place among this group of talented players. Might have got himself on the score sheet but in the end his shot was weak and straight at the keeper. This all adds to his growth as a player though.
Stones (on 74) - 6.
John could be the answer Pep is looking for with regards Fernandinho's competition. He is defensively minded who can play the ball out comfortably from the back. Slotted in fine and was at ease in the fifteen minutes he was on the field. However, it was after a non threatening Cardiff City had finally waved the white flag. How he deals with tougher tasks is yet to be determined, but its a positive option.
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