Premier League: Manchester City finally end winless drought

Manchester City have finally ended their seven-game winless streak in style, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Wednesday. The match saw Kevin De Bruyne deliver a masterclass performance, reminding fans why he is considered one of the best midfielders in the world. The Belgian dynamo was instrumental in City’s resurgence, setting up Bernardo Silva’s opener with a perfectly crafted assist. He then doubled the lead with a clinical strike, marking his return to the starting XI for the first time in nearly three months. De Bruyne’s influence was unmistakable, as he dictated play with his trademark precision and creativity.

Jeremy Doku added the finishing touch to a much-needed victory for the reigning English champions, scoring the third goal to seal the result. The win provided a crucial morale boost for Pep Guardiola’s side, who had been under immense scrutiny following a barren run that included six defeats across competitions. Before kick-off, City found themselves 11 points adrift of league leaders Liverpool, with their title defense looking increasingly precarious. However, the return of De Bruyne injected life into the team, helping restore their rhythm and confidence at the Etihad Stadium. This victory not only keeps City’s hopes of closing the gap alive but also sends a strong message to their rivals that they are far from out of the race. For fans and critics alike, this performance was a timely reminder of the quality and resilience of the champions.

Manchester City moved back into the top four and reduced the gap to Liverpool to nine points after a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest. This came after Liverpool’s 3-3 draw at Newcastle, offering City a much-needed boost. Pep Guardiola had to address rumors of a rift with Kevin De Bruyne before the match, as the Belgian had been slowly reintroduced to the team through substitute appearances. De Bruyne proved his worth by rolling back the years, playing a pivotal role in City’s victory, with a goal and several near-misses.

Guardiola made four changes following Sunday’s 2-0 loss to Liverpool, with Josko Gvardiol, Jeremy Doku, and Jack Grealish joining the starting lineup. City wasted no time, taking the lead just eight minutes in. Ilkay Gundogan delivered a cross, which De Bruyne headed back towards goal, allowing Bernardo Silva to tap in from close range for the opener.

Pep Guardiola reiterated pre-match that Ederson remains his first-choice goalkeeper, but Stefan Ortega was once again preferred between the posts. The German justified his inclusion with a crucial save to deny Morgan Gibbs-White before Forest squandered a golden chance, as Chris Wood fired wide with only Ortega to beat. Kevin De Bruyne eased City nerves in the 31st minute, receiving Jeremy Doku’s pass in the box and slotting coolly into the top corner. While Erling Haaland extended his goalless run to three Premier League games, he provided the assist for Doku’s strike, with the Belgian cutting inside to fire into the far corner.

De Bruyne came close to a second with a curling free-kick and a sharp shot saved by compatriot Matz Sels. A standing ovation greeted his exit 15 minutes from time. Unlike their Champions League meltdown against Feyenoord, City maintained control to secure a clean sheet, lifting spirits at the Etihad.