Manchester City 2-1 Bournemouth Player Ratings: Late Goals From Guehi and Gvardiol Rescue Manchester City As The Cherries Succumb To Rayan Cherki's Magic

Manchester City struggled in the opening Premier League match of their Enzo Maresca era as Marco Rose's Bournemouth gave them a tough time at the Etihad Stadium. Despite keeping most of the possession in the first half, Man City could only manage two shots on target, with a weaker xG than their counterparts.

Rico Lewis had a shot saved by Djordje Petrovic in the fourth minute, but they seemed to lose control of the game as the minutes passed. AFC Bournemouth didn't have much joy going forward until the 26th minute, as Adam Smith slipped in a beautiful ball down the middle, which was picked up by Rayan before finding Evanilson in a crossing position on the right.

The striker put in a low cross at the far post for an onrushing Marcus Tavernier, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net, giving the visitors a well-deserved lead. The Cherries gradually increased their tempo, which made Maresca's side uncomfortable as the game went by.

One of the best strikers in the world currently, Erling Haaland's header was kept out by Petrovic in the 44th minute. Marc Guehi had another brilliant chance in the 51st minute from a corner, where he put his header wide from close range despite the entire goal gaping at him, with the Bournemouth goalkeeper nowhere to be seen.

Manchester City finally found the much-needed equalizer through Guehi, who redeemed himself in the 82nd minute as he headed it in nicely to lift the City fans from their seats.

However, there was more to come as Rayan Cherki's magical feet went past a swarm of defenders before finding Josko Gvardiol in the box, who finished the move brilliantly, but the flag was up for offside. A brief VAR check confirmed that the Croatian was onside and the goal stood, giving City their first-ever league win under Maresca.

Check out the Manchester City vs Bournemouth Player Ratings.

Key Takeaways

• Marc Guéhi recorded the most successful duels in this game (8).
• Rayan Cherki had the most key passes (4).
• Alex Scott had the most successful tackles in this match (4).

Manchester City Player Ratings vs Bournemouth

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Bournemouth Player Ratings vs Manchester City

Have a look at the Bournemouth Player Ratings from the Manchester City vs Bournemouth Player Ratings.

Man of the Match

Marc Guéhi was the best player in this EPL fixture.

Worst Performer

James Hill was the worst performer from Manchester City vs Bournemouth.