Premier League 2019/20, Manchester City 8-0 Watford: 5 Talking Points 

#4 Fernandinho watch alongside Otamendi, who has a point to prove

Despite an early scare, Otamendi surprisingly scored and created an assist as City cruised to victory

John Stones' recent training injury is set to see him return to the sidelines for a month, leaving Guardiola with one recognised central defender. Nicolas Otamendi, who hasn't exactly impressed in a defensive sense over the past eighteen months, is that man.

So you could excuse the wishful thinking that Quique Sanchez Flores would have instilled into his team pre-match, particularly after the Argentine's troubling display away against Norwich.

Despite an early scare, where the 32-year-old had to be bailed out by an alert Ederson, there was no repeat of that performance. Mainly because Watford only registered five shots over the 90 minutes and barely had possession for large periods on this occasion.

Alongside him was Fernandinho, who again filled in admirably at centre-back and has proven his versatility to play the position competently.

Already 34 and reportedly expecting to transition to coaching, like Mikel Arteta and those before him, the Brazilian didn't look out of place alongside a vulnerable Argentine who ultimately has a point to prove unless he wants to be replaced in the not-too-distant future.

Rodri continues to improve in what was previously seen as the Fernandinho role, meaning Guardiola has more tactical flexibility and can use him deeper while retaining the same principles he would have learned from defensive-midfield.