Manchester City climbed into the Premier League’s top four with a 2-0 win over Leicester City, but their performance left room for improvement ahead of a crucial run-in.
Jack Grealish and Omar Marmoush scored, securing three points that put pressure on Chelsea before their game later today.
Grealish’s opener came just 70 seconds into the match and carried personal significance.
City’s lack of a killer instinct remains a concern for manager Pep Guardiola, who watched from the stands while serving a touchline ban.
“We missed the third goal to be more relaxed,” he admitted. “But pleased for a good performance.”
Leicester’s best chance came through Bilal El Khannouss, who tested Ederson from distance. Otherwise, City’s defence held firm.
Marmoush doubled the lead after capitalising on a goalkeeping error. The Egyptian forward has impressed since arriving in January.
“He has a good sense, good numbers for the short time he’s been with us,” Guardiola said. “Really pleased for him.”
City could have added to their lead, with Savinho and Jeremy Doku creating openings, but the final touch was missing.
Grealish had an appeal for a penalty waved away, while Marmoush missed a golden chance to make it 3-0.
In the closing stages, City controlled possession without urgency, a familiar theme this season. With eight league games remaining, Guardiola knows there is little margin for error.
“Every game is vital,” he said. “We never give up on finding the third goal. A performance that nothing wrong happened, everyone focused, we missed a third goal, that’s all.”
Chelsea can reclaim fourth place later today, but City have at least laid down a marker. The Manchester derby looms next, offering another test of their top-four credentials.
City have climbed into the Champions League places, but staying there will require more than just controlled possession – it will demand ruthlessness.
