Club world champions Manchester City ended the most successful year in the club’s history with a problem-free victory. Without star striker Erling Haaland, who is still injured in his foot, the defending champions defeated newly promoted Sheffield United 2-0 (1-0) and, after a minor crisis, are third in the table, two points behind leaders FC Liverpool. On Sunday (3 p.m./Sky) the “Gunners” can climb to first place with a win at FC Fulham.
Before kick-off, Man City presented the five trophies they won this year. Pep Guardiola’s team then dominated bottom-placed Sheffield. Spain’s midfield strategist Rodri gave Manchester the lead after just under a quarter of an hour. The champions had almost 82 percent possession of the ball, but missed the second goal for a long time. World champion Julián Álvarez made up for this after an hour and made the final score 2-0 after three home draws in a row.
Kevin De Bruyne was back in the City squad for the first time since mid-August. The Belgian was out for over four months with a thigh injury, but did not play against Sheffield.
Man City and Arsenal dominate: Most valuable players in the Premier League
34 Kevin De Bruyne | Man City | Market value: €60 million
Premier League: Aston Villa jumps to second place – Chelsea saves victory over time
Aston Villa, meanwhile, managed to move up to second place late on. The team from Birmingham won against FC Burnley 3-2 (2-1) after goals from former Leverkusen professionals Leon Bailey (28th) and Moussa Diaby (42nd) as well as a penalty from Douglas Luiz (89th).
Chelsea FC almost lost a 3-0 lead in a 3-2 (2-0) win at newly promoted Luton Town. After the goals from Cole Palmer (12th/70th) and Noni Madueke (37th), everything looked like a clear Blues success. Ross Barkley (80th) and Elijah Adebayo (87th) brought the hosts close, but despite good opportunities in stoppage time, the hosts were unable to equalize. Chelsea are still in midfield.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
