Manchester City are in pole position to win their fifth Premier League title in six years after they secured a convincing 3-0 win against a lacklustre Arsenal.
From the get go, Mikel Arteta’s side, who have been so solid throughout the campaign, were under the cosh.
In fact, with six minutes on the clock, Man of the Match contender Kevin De Bruyne charged towards Arsenal’s backline before firing past Aaron Ramsdale with a powerful effort.
After some great hold-up play from Erling Haaland, the Belgian made no mistake from distance, handing the Citizens a deserved lead early on.
Arsenal struggled in large spells throughout that opening 45 minutes and just before the half-time whistle blew, City defender John Stones doubled their lead after firing a header past a helpless Ramsdale.
Gunners supporters would have been hoping for a dramatic turn of events in the second period after a number of comebacks of late.
But Pep Guardiola’s side continued to dominate. With 54 minutes gone, the brilliant Kevin De Bruyne bagged his brace, caressing the ball with his trusty right boot to put the tie to bed.
One fan commented on the scenes, saying: “Haaland and De Bruyne doing their best impressions of each other tonight. Two assists for Haaland, two goals for KDB.”
Another added: “De Bruyne is the best midfielder in Premier League history.”
OH Kevin De Bruyne! 🎯
A great takedown from Erling Haaland who passes to De Bruyne for a stunning run and finish! 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/Ex4pyouHVJ
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 26, 2023
After a lengthy VAR check, John Stones doubles Man City’s lead with a brilliant header! ✌️ pic.twitter.com/JkBd6HhsNG
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 26, 2023
It’s that man Kevin De Bruyne again! 🦸♂️
Man City are destroying the Gunners! pic.twitter.com/6u9xhXbSxv
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 26, 2023
City rarely looked flustered at any stage of Wednesday’s clash at the Etihad, although Arsenal managed to claw one back late on through Rob Holding.