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

Hit: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

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.

Kevin De Bruyne makes his first start for Manchester City since January 20. Manchester City in all competitions in that time: WWWWWWWW pic.twitter.com/dOmnJwNNyN

— B/R Football (@brfootball) February 21, 2021

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.

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.

Since joining Arsenal, Aubameyang has had only one shot on target vs Manchester City in the league. It was a penalty. It was saved. pic.twitter.com/PxnQP2ESUr

— FootballFunnys (@FootballFunnnys) February 21, 2021

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.

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.

1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ @premierleague appearances for John Stones! 👊🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/cQQQyEw7C3

— Manchester City (@ManCity) February 21, 2021

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.