Match Analysis: Player Ratings and Manager Performance

**James Trafford (4/10):**
Missed a crucial opportunity to assert his reliability in comparison to Gianluigi Donnarumma. He faced only two shots but conceded both, although neither was straightforward to save. He had a moment of recklessness when he charged out of the area without alerting Stones, but fortunately escaped unscathed.

**Abdukodir Khusanov (5/10):**
Easily brushed aside by Christian Kofane and failed to close down Grimaldo quickly enough. His contributions in attack were minimal, which is expected from a natural centre-back.

**John Stones (6/10):**
One of the few starters who appeared to understand his role. He advanced the ball effectively, demonstrating a good sense of positioning.

**Nathan Ake (5/10):**
Looked out of sorts in his first club appearance in a month. He failed to notice Schick lurking behind him, which led to the second goal.

**Rayan Ait-Nouri (4/10):**
Appeared disconnected from his teammates, lacking both defensive awareness and creativity in attack. His performance led to his substitution at half-time, which was anticipated.

**Tijjani Reijnders (5/10):**
Did not provide the composure typically brought by Bernardo Silva and squandered City’s best chance of the first half, shooting directly at Flekken from within the box.

**Nico Gonzalez (6/10):**
The only player retained from the previous match against Newcastle, he managed to justify his selection by providing some much-needed stability in midfield, a quality that was lacking elsewhere.

**Rico Lewis (4/10):**
Seemed to be a shadow of his former self from two years ago, failing to exert control over the game or create any significant threats.

**Savinho (5/10):**
Inconsistent performance marked by overhit passes and inaccurate shooting, including one attempt that nearly went out for a throw-in. He was also caught out of position during Leverkusen’s second goal.

**Omar Marmoush (5/10):**
Showed that he is ill-suited to a lone striker role and is more effective on the wing. His effort leading the line was lacking, and he mishandled his sole attempt on goal.

**Oscar Bobb (4/10):**
Failed to capitalize on a rare starting opportunity, making errant final passes and predictable runs.

**Nico O’Reilly (5/10):**
Brought additional physicality and purpose to the team, but it ultimately proved ineffective.

**Jeremy Doku (5/10):**
Injected some energy and boldness into the game, but Leverkusen effectively neutralized his threat.

**Phil Foden (5/10):**
Accelerated the pace of City’s play but struggled to create clear opportunities.

**Erling Haaland (6/10):**
Provided City with a focal point and created a significant chance shortly after his introduction but was unable to circumvent Flekken on one attempt and failed to keep another shot down.

**Rayan Cherki (6/10):**
Energized City upon his arrival, testing Flekken with a free-kick and contributing to the overall activity of the team.

**Pep Guardiola (4/10):**
The decision to make extensive changes to the lineup seemed complacent, and he was justly punished for not taking the match seriously enough.