Match Performance Review: Player Ratings and Insights

omidbasir- **James Trafford (5/10):**
Made a commendable save from Ben Woodburn just before the halftime break and effectively handled a close-range attempt from Kelly N’Mai in the second half. However, he lacked confidence in aerial situations, notably missing the ball while attempting to clear a corner.

**Abdukodir Khusanov (5/10):**
Returned to his preferred central defensive role following Max Alleyne’s early exit. His performance was solid yet unremarkable.

**John Stones (4/10):**
Back in the starting lineup after recent injury concerns, Stones appeared somewhat rusty in defense and was substituted after 65 minutes.

**Max Alleyne (N/A):**
Unfortunate to be forced off just 20 minutes into the match due to an injury sustained while challenging Josh Austerfield.

**Rayan Ait-Nouri (6/10):**
One of City’s more effective players, Ait-Nouri contributed to an own goal with a well-timed run and an accurate cross. He was also competent in possession and defensively sound.

**Rico Lewis (5/10):**
Initially started in midfield but had to transition to right-back due to Alleyne’s injury, which limited his impact on the game.

**Nico Gonzalez (5/10):**
Possessed the ball frequently but struggled to make significant contributions, reinforcing the notion that he is not a replacement for Rodri.

**Tijjani Reijnders (4/10):**
Moved into a deeper midfield role after the early reshuffle but was equally underwhelming in both positions he occupied.

**Phil Foden (2/10):**
Given yet another chance to prove his worth, Foden failed to capitalize, registering three shots without hitting the target and lacking influence throughout the match. It is evident why he is no longer a first-choice selection.

**Rayan Cherki (6/10):**
Assisted in setting up a goal for Guehi with a cross-cum-shot, but did not make enough of an impact to strengthen his chances for regular Premier League starts, only coming to life in the last ten minutes.

**Omar Marmoush (4/10):**
Had a well-taken goal disallowed due to an erroneous offside call and created a significant chance for Nico O’Reilly, yet overall, this match felt like a missed opportunity for him.

**Ryan McAidoo (5/10):**
The young player came on for the injured Alleyne, managed a decent save out of Matt Young shortly after halftime, and created three chances.

**Marc Guehi (7/10):**
Stepped in for Stones, bolstering the defense and ultimately sealing the victory with a tap-in goal.

**Nico O’Reilly (5/10):**
Replaced Ait-Nouri but squandered a great opportunity to extend City’s lead with a poorly executed back-flick.

**Antoine Semenyo (7/10):**
Came on as part of a triple substitution that included Guehi and O’Reilly, adding a new dimension to City’s attacking play and was particularly unlucky to see a late shot hit the post.

**Rodri (N/A):**
Came on for Gonzalez in the final minutes of the match.

**Pep Guardiola (6/10):**
Must have been disappointed with his reserves’ performance and the need to introduce players like Guehi and Semenyo to secure the win. Additionally, the injury to Alleyne raises concerns for City’s defensive stability.