EPL 2017/18: Manchester City vs Tottenham Hotspur - 5 Talking Points

#1 Variety of goals for City

?lkay Gündo?an opened the scoring with a bullet header

This match showcased the multiple ways that the Citizens can hurt the opposition. They opened the scoring with another set-piece goal to add to their two against Manchester United. The second came from a quick transition and the third was a sharp attacking move which was more reminiscent of their usual style. Sterling's second and City's fourth was a ball in behind the defence which the English winger was able to take around Hugo Lloris.

They aren't limited to one style or method of scoring; the goals are shared across the team and they are clinical. This ability to take advantage of any opportunity means that the opposition has to be fully focused for the entire match as City gradually up the tempo. Spurs were more ambitious than most teams, to their credit, as they attempted to keep the game in the midfield third rather than purely setting up a low block. City were just too good, though.

The first goal came about due to poor marking, but not much could be done about the rest. They were quick, decisive attacks which exploited gaps in the Tottenham defence. Guardiola won't be happy about conceding as he sets high standards in his quest for perfection, but it was a brilliant team performance.

This would have been a much closer game if Tottenham had their best starting eleven because of how cohesive, fluid and balanced that team is, but City didn't have all their key players available and still dominated. They are just a level above everyone else currently.