Manchester City Assert Dominance Amid Chelsea Turmoil as Kovacic Adds to Blues’ Woes
Manchester City made a strong statement to their Premier League rivals, kicking off their season with a decisive 2-0 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Erling Haaland continued his tradition of scoring on the opening weekend for the third consecutive year, while former Chelsea player Mateo Kovacic sealed the victory with a late goal.
City’s triumph, achieved without key players like Rodri, John Stones, and Phil Foden, highlighted their depth and resilience. Pep Guardiola’s side were in control throughout, despite Chelsea’s efforts under new manager Enzo Maresca.
Chelsea, despite spending heavily and showing flashes of potential, were let down by their lack of a clinical goalscorer, with Nicolas Jackson’s offside goal epitomizing their struggles.
Meanwhile, City’s solid performance, capped by Haaland’s powerful strike and Kovacic’s composed finish, underscored their status as the team to beat this season.
Kovacic’s refusal to celebrate his goal against his former club added a touch of irony to the match, as Chelsea’s defensive lapses and ongoing identity crisis became all too evident.
🇭🇷🙌🏻 Mateo Kovačić (30) showed respect to his former club, Chelsea by not celebrating his goal at Stamford Bridge.
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) August 18, 2024
pic.twitter.com/vT4VWMFqWB
City, in contrast, looked every bit the champions as they began their quest for a fifth straight Premier League title with a perfect start.
Manchester City Assert Dominance Amid Chelsea Turmoil as Kovacic Adds to Blues’ Woes
