Arsenal 0-1 Manchester City: 5 hits and flops as Sky Blues register record 18th consecutive victory | Premier League 2020-21

Manchester City picked up another huge win to bolster their title charge.
Manchester City picked up another huge win to bolster their title charge.

Manchester City extended their winning streak to 18 games in all competitions after seeing off Arsenal 1-0 at the Emirates in the Premier League.

Raheem Sterling's second-minute strike proved to be enough for the Sky Blues, who've opened up a 10-point lead at the top of the table.

Arsenal were second-best for most of the game, failing to conjure goal-scoring opportunities of note. They've now lost eight consecutive league games against Manchester City, who's title charge continues to gather steam.

On that note, here are five hits and flops from either team in the match:

Hit: Raheem Sterling (Manchester City)

Raheem Sterling was on target for Manchester City.
Raheem Sterling was on target for Manchester City.

Raheem Sterling continued his hot streak in the Premier League as well as his amazing scoring run against Arsenal, netting a goal to seal all three points for Manchester City.

After missing a bright chance to break the deadlock in the opening minute of the game, the former Liverpool winger headed home a Riyad Mahrez cross into the far corner from close range.

That was only his ninth goal of the season, but more importantly, the difference-maker for his side. Even though he couldn't add to his tally, Sterling remained a thorn in Arsenal's flesh with his movements and passes in the final third.


Flop: Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)

Martin Odegaard underwhelmed against Manchester City.
Martin Odegaard underwhelmed against Manchester City.

Just a few hours before the game, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta lavished praise on his loan signing Martin Odegaard, describing him as a 'young leader' on the field.

However, after the Manchester City outing, Mikel Arteta might have to eat his own words, as the Norwegian youngster had a stinker against the league leaders.

The 22-year old failed to bring his creative prowess to the fore, while his passing left a lot to be desired too. He was also dispossessed on one occasion.

It's still early days into his Arsenal spell, and he may need more time to adapt to his new surroundings.

Hit: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

Kevin De Bruyne made a promising return against Arsenal.
Kevin De Bruyne made a promising return against Arsenal.

It was not the most spectacular return to the Manchester City lineup for Kevin De Bruyne. But the talismanic Belgian was nonetheless heavily involved in the proceedings against Arsenal.

In fact, he could've had an assist in the opening minute of the game had Sterling not blazed his effort wide.

De Bruyne was a thorn in Arsenal's flesh all game, and one through-ball to Ilkay Gundogan in the second half was particularly eye-catching.

He was subbed off at the hour mark for Gabriel Jesus without scoring a goal or registering an assist. But the 29-year old's return to Manchester City's lineup was still an encouraging one.


Flop: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Arsenal)

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was ineffective for Arsenal.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was ineffective for Arsenal.

Arsenal were woeful in attack against Manchester City, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's performance sticking out like a sore thumb.

So often a prolific goal-scorer for the Gunners, especially in big games like the one against Manchester City, the Gabonese hitman was uncharacteristically poor on the night. He failed to muster a single effort on target all game.

Whenever Arsenal looked to counter, Aubameyang contrived to give the ball away on the break or made a poor first touch, which fizzled out some promising attacking moves.

He's the kind of player who normally thrives in such situations, but that was not to be against Manchester City. In a season blighted with injuries and lack of form, Aubameyang endured another forgettable outing.


Hit: John Stones (Manchester City)

John Stones produced another excellent shift at the back.
John Stones produced another excellent shift at the back.

One of the best players for Manchester City on the night, John Stones, put on a defending masterclass as he continues to soar new heights this season.

He was an absolute rock at the back for the Sky Blues, repelling everything that Arsenal threw his way. Stones also played a crucial role in keeping Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang quiet.

John Stones registered a commendable 94% passing accuracy, made one interception, and three clearances - the most in the game after only Rob Holding (4) .

His terrific partnership with City's summer arrival Ruben Dias is beginning to flourish, and the duo had a fabulous outing at the Emirates.

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