Tottenham player ratings vs Manchester City: Maddison, Sarr, and Kulusevski star in Postecoglou’s tactical masterclass
Tottenham Hotspur delivered a breathtaking performance to stun Manchester City 4-0 at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday evening. In a display that encapsulated Ange Postecoglou’s attacking philosophy, Spurs dismantled the reigning champions with ruthless efficiency. Here’s an in-depth look at the game and our player ratings for the Spurs squad.
Match Recap
After a disappointing loss to Ipswich last weekend, Postecoglou made some crucial changes to his starting lineup. Yves Bissouma came in to replace the suspended Rodrigo Bentancur, while Ben Davies stepped in for the injured Cristian Romero in defense. James Maddison, celebrating his 28th birthday, returned to the lineup and partnered with Dejan Kulusevski, who was shifted to the right wing. Brennan Johnson started on the bench, while Dominic Solanke took up the central striker role.
City, hampered by a few defensive errors, struggled to keep up with Tottenham’s high press and incisive counterattacks. Spurs, despite missing key defensive stalwarts like Romero and Micky van de Ven, showed great resilience at the back while thriving in attack.
The Goals
1. Maddison Magic (6’)
The midfielder opened the scoring in style. Radu Dragusin launched a long ball from deep, finding Kulusevski on the right. The Swede danced past Josko Gvardiol before delivering a sublime cross for Maddison, who volleyed home with his weaker left foot. A birthday goal to remember.
2. Doubled Delight for Maddison (19’)
Maddison added his second just minutes later. Tottenham’s high pressing forced Gvardiol into a mistake. Maddison quickly combined with Son Heung-min in a slick one-two before lofting the ball delicately over the advancing Ederson. It was a moment of pure class that showcased his intelligence and composure.
3. Porro Powers Home (51’)
Spurs extended their lead early in the second half. Kulusevski whipped in a dangerous ball to Dominic Solanke, who cleverly teed it up for Pedro Porro. The Spaniard unleashed a rocket into the far corner, sparking wild celebrations among the traveling fans.
4. Johnson Seals the Rout (78’)
The final nail in City’s coffin came through Brennan Johnson. Timo Werner, making a lung-busting run down the left, sent a precise cross into the box. Johnson slid in perfectly to steer the ball into the net, capping off a sensational team performance.
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Tottenham Player Ratings
Guglielmo Vicario (GK) – 9
An outstanding performance from Spurs’ number one. Despite some early nerves with a fumbled corner, Vicario made several crucial saves. His quick reflexes denied Erling Haaland on multiple occasions, including a foot save early on and a stunning point-blank block from Ilkay Gundogan in the second half. His commanding presence gave Tottenham a solid foundation.
Pedro Porro (RB) – 8
Porro was excellent both defensively and offensively. He read the game well, cutting out City’s attacking moves, and took his goal brilliantly. His ability to join the attack while maintaining defensive discipline was key to Spurs’ success.
Radu Dragusin (CB) – 7
Stepping into a makeshift backline, Dragusin handled the pressure admirably. His long ball to assist Maddison’s opener was pinpoint. While he was occasionally troubled by Haaland’s physicality, he held firm and grew into the game.
Ben Davies (CB) – 7
A solid and composed performance in an unfamiliar center-back pairing. Davies was calm under pressure and provided crucial cover when City pressed hard in the second half.
Timo Werner (LB) – 8
Werner showed great energy up and down the left flank. His assist for Johnson’s goal was a testament to his pace and vision. He also did well defensively, helping nullify City’s threat from the right.
Yves Bissouma (CM) – 8
Bissouma was immense in midfield, breaking up play and distributing the ball efficiently. His physical presence disrupted City’s rhythm and allowed Spurs to dominate large parts of the game.
Pape Matar Sarr (CM) – 8
Sarr was tireless in midfield, contributing both defensively and offensively. His work rate was unmatched, and he played a key role in Tottenham’s pressing game.
James Maddison (AM) – 10
The star of the show. Maddison’s two goals were a masterclass in technique and composure. Beyond the goals, his creativity, movement, and leadership set the tone for Spurs’ performance. A perfect birthday outing for the midfielder.
Dejan Kulusevski (RW) – 9
Kulusevski was electric on the right wing. His assist for Maddison’s first goal was exquisite, and he constantly troubled City’s defense with his dribbling and vision.
Son Heung-min (LW) – 7
Though he didn’t get on the scoresheet, Son played an important role in Maddison’s second goal with a clever assist. His off-the-ball movement created space for others.
Dominic Solanke (ST) – 8
A selfless performance from the striker. Solanke’s link-up play was excellent, particularly in the build-up to Porro’s goal. His physicality gave City’s defense plenty to think about.
Substitutes
Brennan Johnson (78’) – 7
Made an instant impact with a well-timed run and finish for the fourth goal.
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Conclusion
This was a statement win for Tottenham Hotspur, showcasing their attacking brilliance and tactical discipline under Ange Postecoglou. With standout performances from Maddison, Kulusevski, and Vicario, Spurs proved they could match the very best. The victory not only keeps them in contention for a top-four spot but also signals a bright future under their new manager.
