How Manchester City’s players rated in Pep Guardiola’s underwhelming debut season at the Etihad Stadium

Add as preferred source on Google

Midfielders

Yaya Toure – Despite falling out with Guardiola at the start of the season and not being involved in the league until November, Toure put it behind him and had another excellent year at the Etihad. Was as solid and stubborn as ever in the middle of the park and protected his defence superbly. 8.

Fernando – Utilised as more of a squad player this season, making just five starts from midfield, and has always been Toure’s understudy since arriving. Could be another on his way out this summer. 5.

Fernandinho – Guardiola’s utility man this year, the Brazilian has been a dependable part of City’s challenge for the Champions League spots in the league and will likely feature prominently again next year. Was even used at right-back and slotted in with no complaints, looking comfortable. 7.

Ilkay Gundogan – The German’s season started with such promise, being an integral part of City’s early winning streak, but an untimely injury ended his season prematurely in December. Will seem like a whole new signing when he returns for next year and will no doubt be a huge player again. 6.

Kevin de Bruyne – One of a few stand-out players at the Etihad this season, the Belgian was involved in 24 goals (six goals, 18 assists) and was always at the heart of anything attacking in the opposition final third, creating over 100 chances for his side. Will go into next year rightly full of confidence. 8.

Jesus Navas – Was utilised a lot as a right-wing back in Guardiola’s experimental three-man defensive system this year, and began to adapt to it well before being demoted to the side-lines. Is unlikely to have a big role next year and a move back to Spain – and Sevilla – is on the cards. 6.

David Silva – A real indispensable part of City’s side, the Spaniard has been a cut above almost everyone else and is truly a world-class midfielder. Able to find gaps and exploit space where others can’t, creating 82 chances for his teammates, and is the ticking heartbeat of a strong City side. 9.

Aleix Garcia – Despite only making four appearances in the league this season under Guardiola, the young midfielder has shown enough promise to suggest that he’s certainly one for the future. 5.

Fabian Delph – After struggling with injury for large parts of the season he returned with a few cameo displays late in the year, but he will find it tough to break into a strong midfield next year. 5.