Manchester City 3-1 Arsenal: 5 Talking Points

Manchester City v Arsenal - Premier League
Manchester City v Arsenal - Premier League

#4 Raheem Sterling's poor finishing a worry for Pep Guardiola

Manchester City v Arsenal - Premier League
Manchester City v Arsenal - Premier League

Though City have been able to demolish opponents with ease this season, one aspect that Guardiola must address is winger Raheem Sterling's composure in front of goal. The 22-year old is clearly not the finished product, as he fluffed at-least three massive opportunities to score and put the Gunners further on the back-foot.

Silva's square pass was put on a plate for Sterling to tap home, but he was unable to get a touch, although he appeared to be pushed by Sead Kolasinac. A similar move on the half-hour mark resulted in the Englishman fluffing his lines with Cech beaten yet again.

But the most glaring miss - one which got Pep Guardiola animated - was just before the half-time break, when Arsenal were carved open on the half-way line after conceding possession. Sterling was sent clear, with Sane accompanying him and only Laurent Koscielny retreating for cover.

Sterling was expected to round Koscielny and lay the ball for Sane to sweep home, but instead overhit his pass across the penalty area and out of play. With competition for places fierce, Sterling must be more effective when it comes to putting the ball in the back of the net, especially in such big games.

Quick Links