Manchester City’s 2-0 victory over Chelsea showcased their experience and wisdom, especially through the performance of Mateo Kovacic. Despite stepping in for the absent Rodri, Kovacic controlled the game well and ensured City didn’t miss a beat. Although he made a few mistakes, his vast experience allowed him to quickly recover and maintain his composure. Kovacic’s ability to dictate the tempo of the game and his comfort on the ball made it difficult for Chelsea to disrupt City’s rhythm.
The question arises of whether City should sign an understudy for Rodri. While Kovacic proved himself capable in the holding midfield role, it would be challenging to find someone better who would also be content with a backup role. City already has promising young talents like Rico Lewis, who performed admirably when filling in for Kyle Walker. Lewis’s tenacity and technical ability make him a suitable candidate for the holding midfield position. Therefore, it is more likely that City will focus on finding a younger player who can provide backup for Erling Haaland, similar to their successful acquisition of Julian Alvarez.
In addition to Kovacic’s standout performance, City had several other positives to take away from the game. Their center-back duo of Manuel Akanji and Ruben Dias impressed, and Savinho’s first-half display was excellent. Despite the slow start to the season that City is known for, they managed to get the job done against Chelsea. This victory serves as a reminder that there is still more to come from this talented City side.
Overall, City’s experience and depth were evident in their win over Chelsea. Kovacic’s performance highlighted the importance of having seasoned players who can step up when needed. While the question of signing an understudy for Rodri remains, City’s focus may shift towards finding a backup for Haaland. Regardless, City’s victory showcased their ability to adapt and succeed, even when not at their best.