Manchester City Battles Celtic in Thrilling Pre-Season Opener at Kenan Memorial Stadium
Manchester City kicked off their pre-season tour with an electrifying match against Celtic at the Kenan Memorial Stadium in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
As Manchester City players lined up ahead of their summer-friendly clash with Celtic, anticipation was high. The game delivered, with City engaging in a high-octane contest that saw Oscar Bobb shine as the standout performer for Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Bobb was instrumental, contributing two assists and a goal. Erling Haaland also made his mark with a powerful header. Despite a shaky first half that saw City trailing 3-1 due to defensive lapses, Bobb’s opener briefly leveled the score at 1-1 as he managed to slot a shot past Kasper Schmeichel.
Maximo Perrone, coming off the bench, scored immediately after half-time, followed by Haaland’s header to equalize at 3-3, both goals set up by Bobb. However, Luis Palma’s easy finish clinched the game for Celtic, exposing City’s inexperienced high line.
Player Ratings for Manchester City at Kenan Memorial Stadium:
Stefan Ortega
Caught in the crossfire for the three goals conceded, Ortega couldn’t be blamed as the defense faltered. Notably, he started over Ederson. Rating: 6
Rico Lewis
Showed smart play both in and out of possession, integrating well into the new system with full-backs pushing inside. Rating: 7
Luke Mbete
Pushed up needlessly for the first goal and was slightly out of position for the second and third goals, leading to his substitution at half-time. Rating: 5
Jahmai Simpson-Pusey
Displayed some nerves on his senior debut, appearing naive out of possession. Nonetheless, it was a valuable learning experience. Rating: 6
Josh Wilson-Esbrand
Struggled defensively in the first half with all three goals coming from his side but improved significantly in the second half. Rating: 5
Kalvin Phillips
A rocky start, placing Ortega in a tough spot, and was often caught too high up, leaving gaps in midfield. Substituted at half-time. Rating: 4
James McAtee
Supported by Guardiola to excel this season but struggled to influence the game and was substituted at the break. Rating: 6
Nico O’Reilly
In his first senior game, he showed flashes of brilliance but was occasionally slow on the ball. A solid debut nonetheless. Rating: 6
Oscar Bobb
Reluctantly celebrated his goal but contributed two fantastic assists – a mazy run for Perrone and a delicate cross for Haaland. Proved he’s ready for more first-team action. Rating: 8
Jack Grealish
Though he didn’t score or assist, he played a crucial role in the first goal and was pivotal in many attacks, showing maturity. Rating: 7
Erling Haaland
Denied a hat-trick by Schmeichel’s heroics but powered in a second-half header. Looks fit and ready for the season. Rating: 7
Substitutes:
Maximo Perrone (on 45)
Showed smart finishing to score right after half-time, building on his experience from La Liga. Rating: 7
Ederson (on 45)
Had little to do and couldn’t prevent Celtic’s fourth goal. Rating: 6
Mahamadou Susoho (on 45)
Helped secure the midfield more effectively in the second half. Rating: 6
Joel Ndala (on 45)
Kept the opposing full-back engaged and had a shot saved. Rating: 7
Jacob Wright (on 63)
Displayed some good touches during his time on the field. Rating: 6
Jadel Katongo (on 63)
Defended well but was caught out for Celtic’s winning goal. Rating: 6
Ben Knight (on 66)
Looked lively and bright on the left flank. Rating: 6
Micah Hamilton (on 66)
Played upfront and showed good energy and movement. Rating: 6
