But two games in to his competitive tenure as manager of Manchester City, certain patterns have already begun to emerge. His passing was reasonable, but he struggled with the technique of moving the ball on to his stronger foot. With that base, Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva are then given licence in what De Bruyne calls a “free eight” role. Against Sunderland, who sat deep and largely allowed City possession, it all seemed a little laboured, a little mannered, as De Bruyne acknowledged. Sunderland and Steaua offered a gentle enough start; the first real test will come with the Manchester derby on 10 September.

Source: The Guardian August 18, 2016 10:00 UTC