Manchester City 0-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers: 5 Talking Points | Premier League 2019-20

#4 Kevin de Bruyne's absence hurts City

Bernardo Silva's substitution came in too late to upset Wolves' organization in the defence

Kevin de Bruyne has been vital for Manchester City whenever he has stepped on the pitch this season. The Belgian had a rampant start to the season and his form never seemed to be running out. However, an injury kept de Bruyne out against Wolves and it could be told that he wasn't on the pitch just by the ball movement.

Manchester City was slow in moving the ball from one side to the other and loose in their passing exchanges. They were causing no problems at all to Wolves who were holding their structure strong with a 2-3-5 defensive shape. Most of Manchester City's attempts didn't make Rui Patricio even blink an eye.

The creation through the wings was bleak with weak crosses and cutbacks all dealt easily by Wolves' compact defence. Sergio Aguero was smothered up by the defenders and given a tough time all day long. The moment any City midfielder touched the ball around the Wolves box, he would be swarmed up by the players.

This poor creativity on City's part let Wolves recover the ball and play out from back to front with ease. After all, there was nothing much to worry about until Bernardo Silva sent in some warning shots which came to an end when Adama Traore struck the first goal.