Manchester City today took on Sheffield United in the Premier League and ran out narrow 2-1 winners
City were without manager Pep Guardiola, who is recovering from back surgery, so Juanma Lillo took the reins.
City endured a frustrating first 45 minutes at Bramall Lane.
It was absolute domination from the visitors both in terms of possession and shots.
Erling Haaland had several but couldn’t convert.
His biggest chance was the penalty, but the Norwegian uncharacteristically fluffed his lines.
MORE MAN CITY STORIES
But he atoned in the second-half, scoring a header from a Jack Grealish cross.
The Blades equalised through Jayden Bogle after some sloppy defending by City.
But Rodri popped up with yet another crucial contribution in a sky blue shirt.
Interestingly, the team today included no start for Phil Foden, which came as a surprise to many given his performance against Newcastle.
And ahead of the game, former City goalkeeper Shay Given said he felt the England international would be disappointed…
Shay Given reacts to Phil Foden not starting against Sheffield United today
Just before kick-off, Given – who was in the Sky studio – gave his take on Foden not being selected to start today.
He said: “The big news today is Foden not starting. In the game last week Foden was man of the match. It’s strange because he walks off the pitch and Pep is hugging him, and he deserves to start today. Foden, we just saw a clip there, he was walking onto the pitch with this head down like he’s disappointed as well. With De Bruyne missing, it seemed the perfect opportunity for him to step up.
“I’m disappointed for Phil. He’s a brilliant player. Last week he was the difference. He was picking up those little pockets. I’m surprised he doesn’t start today.
“Even Foden’s probably questioning himself as well. What can you do as a player, when you do such a great performance last week and then next week you’re back on the bench.
“Foden’s of an age now where he should be playing regularly.”
Foden did play the final 15 minutes or so for City.
And it was his poor touch that actually set Rodri up for the winner.
Frustration for Foden
City have yet to say anything about why Foden was on the bench today and not starting.
There had been some speculation about Foden having been ill leading up to the game.
But there has been no confirmation or elaboration of that, meaning for now it just looks as though Pep preferred other options.
It was certainly a surprise, because Foden was unreal against Newcastle and made a difference today.