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 found the net, 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. The midfielder dedicated his goal to his late brother Keelan, marking the 25th anniversary of his passing. “This day is always difficult for the family, so to score and win was brilliant,” he said.
For Pep Guardiola, the result was job done, but City’s lack of a killer instinct remains a concern. The manager, serving a touchline ban, watched from the stands as his side dominated possession without putting the game to bed. “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. “We didn’t concede anything except one thing at the end,” Guardiola noted.
Marmoush, stepping in for the injured Erling Haaland, 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.
The closing stages saw City control 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 to find the third goal. A performance that nothing wrong happened, everyone focused, we missed a third goal, that’s all.”
Chelsea, just a point behind, 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.
For now, Guardiola will take the win, but the need for greater sharpness is clear. City have climbed into the Champions League places, but staying there will require more than just controlled possession — it will demand ruthlessness.
