December 30, (THEWILL) – Manchester City ended a trophy-laden 2023 in familiar fashion, cruising to a comfortable 2-0 victory over English Premier League strugglers Sheffield United at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
After a tricky December, Pep Guardiola’s men looked back to their dominant best. Rodri broke the deadlock in the 14th minute with a fine low strike before Julian Alvarez wrapped up the points in the second half after good work from Phil Foden.
It was City’s first clean sheet in nine games and the win saw them off to back-to-back top-flight victories for the first time since November. Guardiola named Kevin De Bruyne amongst the substitutes for his first matchday involvement since August, although the Belgian was not required.
The hosts controlled possession and patiently unlocked the Blades’ defence. Rodri pounced on a loose ball to confidently drive forward and fire home. Alvarez slid in Foden’s cross on the hour mark to seal victory.
Sheffield United briefly threatened late in the first half as William Osula went close, but City keeper Ederson dealt with the danger. In the end, the visitors ultimately had no answer to Guardiola’s ruthless side who finished 2023 with five trophies.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
