Silva pulls the strings in the standout performance of the Pep era: Man City Player Ratings vs. Chelsea – City Watch

Ederson – 8

Another commanding performance between the sticks. He controls his 18-yard box with great confidence and his distribution was solid once again. Came off his line to sweep up on several occasions but didn’t actually have any real saves to make.

Kyle Walker – 8

He has been a major upgrade at right-back and his pace and strength was a key factor in a strong performance. He regularly tucked inside when we had the ball but was a mixed bag in his distribution. His surges down the right and his match-winning mentality were crucial in the 2nd half and his aggression in defence was key in protecting the lead late on.

John Stones – 8

Is quickly becoming the commander of a tight back four. After being skinned by Morata in the first-half, he grew into the game and made several key tackles and headers. His passing was also on point and he’ll be a superb investment for years to come.

Nicolas Otamendi – 7.5

The Argentine did what was asked of him and held the line really well, catching Chelsea offside on numerous occasions. Made a couple of key defensive headers from set pieces and provided a tough, physical presence. Put in one of his trademark, unnecessary fouls which provided a late opportunity for the home side.

Fabian Delph – 8

Is proving to be a valuable member of Pep’s squad and followed up his strong performance in mid-week with another. His underrated skill gave Chelsea lots to think about and he supported the attacks with incisive passing. Needs to be wary of getting caught out after tucking into central areas when in possession.

Fernandinho – 8.5

Back to his most consistent best this season and delivered another strong performance. Almost opened the scoring with a bullet header close to the end of the first half. Got booked for foul on Hazard in the 2nd half and made some key interceptions as Chelsea tried to peg City back.

David Silva – 9 (Man of the Match)

Dictated the tempo of the game and contributed to the build up of the team’s best chances. Had a good effort saved by Courtois and Chelsea resorted to a number of trips and kicks on him to break up the game. At the heart of everything positive and was just, basically… Merlin.

Kevin De Bruyne – 8.5

The mercurial Belgian was the match winner with a scorching strike from outside the box. He had some quiet periods during the game but proved his class once again. Given MOTM by the BT Commentary team.

Raheem Sterling – 8

Arguably the biggest threat for City going forwards and gave both wing backs a torrid time. Unlucky not to get a more clear cut chance on goal and battled to the very end. He carried on his superb start to the season.

Leroy Sané – 6

Nothing seemed to quite come off for the flying winger. He tried his chance on either flank but never truly threatened and looked frustrated with some of the referees decisions.

Gabriel Jesus – 8

Was extremely well marshalled by the Chelsea defence but gave a deft lay off for De Bruyne’s goal. The enthusiastic striker worked his socks off and grew into the game in the 2nd half. Almost caught Courtois cold when he blocked his clearance a few feet wide of an open goal. Also denied late on by a goal line clearance after a brilliantly controlled volley.

Subs:

Bernardo Silva – 6

Lively when he came on but didn’t make much of an impact. Struggled to get up to pace in a frantic final 20 minutes.

Ilkay Gundogan – N/A

Not enough time to make any real impact.

Danilo – N/A

Had literally seconds on the pitch before the final whistle was blown.