By Nicole Powell
Manchester City roared into the knockout rounds of the FIFA Club World Cup after a 6-0 thumping of Al Ain in Atlanta on Sunday.
The game underlined Pep Guardiola’s squad depth and shone a spotlight on the summer transfer activity at the Etihad.
A statement win secured
City were clinical from the off, with Ilkay Gundogan opening proceedings and teenager Claudio Echeverri producing a moment of flair by rifling home a free-kick on his first start.
Erling Haaland coolly converted a first-half penalty, while substitutes Oscar Bobb and new signing Rayan Cherki added their names to the scoresheet in the final 10 minutes after Gundogan had netted his second.
As a result, the Citizens drew level on points with Juventus at the top of Group G, with the Italians ahead on goal difference, making Thursday’s clash between the giants a winner-takes-all showdown.
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Cheki flair, Echeverri spark
Echeverri’s stunner drew plaudits before Cherki’s composed finish announced his arrival and gave Guardiola fresh cause for optimism.
Cherki’s move to City has been one of the biggest stories of the summer transfer window, and the Citizens will be happy with his integration so far.
Speaking on the Frenchman, Guardiola said: “He’s an incredible player, a big, big talent in small spaces. I’m happy for him because it was a great goal.
“It’s a pity for the twisted [ankle], which is a little bit sore. It was a problem – that’s why he could not continue after half-time.”
What’s next?
Manchester City head into the Orlando clash with Juventus knowing they control their own destiny – win the group and avoid a game against Real Madrid in the round of 16.
“We know what we need to do against the Italian team to finish as number one,” said Guardiola.
With optimism running high and Guardiola’s rotations paying dividends, this is a City side on track but still seeking perfection.
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