Man City player ratings vs Villarreal as Savinho and Haaland among the 8/10s

Manchester City continued their unbeaten start in the Champions League with a crucial 2-0 victory away at Villarreal. Pep Guardiola's men have now amassed seven points from three matches despite making four changes from the team that beat Everton at the weekend.

Rico Lewis, one of the players who came in, played a pivotal role in the first goal, setting up prolific striker Erling Haaland to extend his scoring streak to 12 consecutive games. Bernardo Silva then broke Haaland's monopoly on City's goals, heading in from a Savinho cross. Despite a few nerve-wracking moments, including a near miss off the post, another clean sheet for Gianluigi Donnarumma keeps the momentum rolling for the Blues. Express Sport rates and slates the City players...

Man City player ratings vs Villarreal

Gianluigi Donnarumma - 8

His crucial save in the second half helped maintain City's dominance, and he was on his toes throughout the match.

Matheus Nunes - 8

Exceptional in defence and even better supporting the attack with Lewis and Savinho in the first half.

Ruben Dias - 7

Received an unfortunate booking in the second half but otherwise managed Villarreal's threats with ease.

John Stones - 7

Demonstrated his class by seamlessly transitioning into midfield to support City's possession, while also knowing when to fall back.

Josko Gvardiol - 6

A few careless passes earned him Guardiola's displeasure on the sidelines, indicating he is still finding his feet this season.

Nico Gonzalez - 7

Showed great awareness and looked sharp, though there were concerns as he had to limp off.

Bernardo Silva - 8

A Man City goalscorer not named Haaland! A smart headed finish. Impressive in attack and made some crucial tackles.

Rico Lewis - 7

Dominated the first half alongside Savinho, even if his influence waned in the second half.

Savinho - 8

One of his finest performances for City, playing a major role in two goals and nearly scoring himself.

Jeremy Doku - 6

Missed an early opportunity in the box and couldn't replicate the success of his fellow winger.

Erling Haaland - 8

Scored yet again and a presence up top throughout the match. His incredible form continues.

Substitutes

Mateo Kovacic (for Gonzalez, 57) - 7

Provided some excellent passes for Haaland and others.

Tijjani Reijnders (for Lewis, 72) - 6

Capable of carrying the ball out of danger, but occasionally runs into trouble.

Oscar Bobb (for Doku, 72) - 6

Not much to note.

Marmoush (for Savinho, 86) - N/A

Barely had time to make an impact.

Cherki (for Haaland, 86) - N/A

Hardly had any time on the pitch.