Man City rediscover flair in crucial win over Newcastle as Mikel Merino steps up for Arsenal - Premier League hits and misses

13 February 2025, 14:34 | Updated: 16 February 2025, 16:03

Man City flair reappears at opportune moment

A performance that harked back to the Manchester City of old. And an individual display from Omar Marmoush that will serve long in the memory. City might have morphed into a moments team this season but thumping Newcastle 4-0 felt like more than just a moment. It was a statement.

Before Saturday many were questioning City's muscle in the top-four fight. Many were querying their appetite for it. But Pep Guardiola's side showed they have the stomach. Such momentum may prove invaluable as they attempt to overturn their European play-off deficit against Real Madrid in four days' time.

• Report & highlights: Man City 4-0 Newcastle

Marmoush was the star of the show, every bit a £60m player, and his energy was infectious. His buzz seemed to breathe a new lease of life into team-mates who have looked below par in recent weeks.

Suddenly Ilkay Gundogan's legs worked. Phil Foden's passing was crisp. Rico Lewis' defending resolute. Latest signing Nico Gonzalez, who Guardiola dubbed "mini-Rodri" post-match, was impressive too.

City looked revived as they earned their best Premier League home win of the season - their biggest overall since May 2024 - and in turn proved they are far from done yet.
Laura Hunter

Merino, Nwaneri set to push Sterling out of Arsenal team

There was a moment in the second half where Arsenal's forward hopes were momentarily laid bare.

A free-kick was cleared to Raheem Sterling on the edge of the box. But instead of shooting, the experienced pro with nearly 400 league appearances and 82 England caps passed the ball to 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri in a similar area, who had a shot blocked.

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