Manchester City’s hard-fought victory over Chelsea could prove to be one of their most significant wins of the season. After struggling against Chelsea last season and underperforming against their ‘Big Six’ rivals, City showed they could handle adversity, even without some of their top players. Despite missing key figures and facing a revamped Chelsea side, City did what was needed to secure a 2-0 win, sending a strong message in their title defense.
Here are some key moments you might have missed from the match:
Haaland Silences Cucurella
Marc Cucurella, who once claimed that “Haaland trembles when he sees Cucurella,” was quickly reminded of the reality when City launched a rare long ball right at Haaland, who immediately targeted Cucurella. Haaland’s dominance was clear, and he capped it off by scoring after effortlessly getting past the Chelsea defender. As Cucurella limped off with cramp, Haaland stood nearby, with City fans chanting his name in front of the defeated left-back. After the game, Haaland added salt to the wound by revealing that Cucurella had asked for his shirt last season—proof that the song hadn’t fazed him.
Haaland’s incredible tally of 91 goals in 100 games earned high praise from Guardiola, who said: “He has numbers like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo… Scoring 91 goals in 100 games in this country is unbelievable.”
Chairman’s Post-Match Debrief
When Mateo Kovacic scored City’s crucial second goal, Chelsea owner Todd Boehly left his seat in frustration. Meanwhile, City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak and CEO Ferran Soriano stayed to applaud their team and later held a post-match discussion on the Stamford Bridge pitch. Al Mubarak also had an animated conversation with Guardiola, both men smiling as they left the stadium.
The difference in demeanor between Guardiola and his friend, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, was striking. While Guardiola praised his players and even their families in his post-match interviews, Maresca looked visibly frustrated by Chelsea fans’ impatience and was defensive in his press conference, facing tough questions about his squad decisions.
Ederson’s Man of the Match Choice
Despite a close call when Nicolas Jackson’s goal was ruled offside, Ederson redeemed himself with a crucial save later in the match, helping City secure their win. After the final whistle, Ederson made sure Rico Lewis received recognition for his outstanding performance, pushing the young defender forward to accept the applause from the away fans.
Guardiola was full of praise for Lewis, saying: “He saved a goal because he’s always in the right position. In one-on-ones defensively, he’s unbelievable… He does everything well. He is a top player.”
Grealish’s New Role
Jack Grealish returned to the squad but was left on the bench, a role he likely didn’t expect after a summer off and full pre-season. Instead of starting, Grealish spent much of the second half warming up on the touchline, hoping for a call that never came. Guardiola opted for Phil Foden, who had only just returned to training, to replace the injured Savinho. Grealish’s main contribution was assisting with the warm-ups—a role usually given to younger players.
While the match highlighted City’s depth and tactical flexibility, it also hinted at the fierce competition within the squad, with players like Grealish having to fight for their place in Guardiola’s plans.
