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Villarreal became the most recent team to succumb to the Norwegian striker, who netted in his ninth straight City fixture. The visitors secured a relatively easy 2-0 win in the Cerámica, with the Portuguese midfielder adding a second in a first half of clear superiority. While the hosts had moments in the second period, they created little consistent threat. After the forward was withdrawn late on, a collective sigh swept through the ground—his impact had long been done.

Dominant Opening from Manchester City

The English side started sharply, with the number nine, the winger, and Jérémy Doku linking up to test Luíz Júnior into an first-minute save. Just later, the striker directed a opportunity past the post. The City manager employed a flexible formation, at times resembling a 3-2-4-1, with the defender moving into defense when needed. City enjoyed sixty-nine percent of the ball in the opening period, though their control felt even greater.

The Home Side Find It Tough to Cope

Marcelino's team seemed unable to read their opponents' patterns. Villarreal opted for a deep line and quick breaks, but City exceeded them in physicality and skill. Any hints of threat from the hosts were swiftly snuffed out, with Rúben Dias denying Georges Mikautadze and Gueye shooting wide.

Composure proved crucial for City, particularly in the lead-up to the opening strike.

First Goal Demonstrates City's Patience

That opening goal on 17 minutes epitomized City's calmness. The Brazilian and John Stones exchanged passes repeatedly on the right, drawing the defense out. Then, the pace shifted—slow movement turned into a rapid sequence, Rico Lewis bursting into the box and squaring for the forward to finish.

Second Header Seals the Win

The next goal was more simple. Again, Savinho sent in a ball from the wing, and Silva drifted unmarked to head in from close range.

After the Break Brings Momentary Resistance

While the hosts showed some fight in the second period—with Pépé and others testing the City keeper—City mostly kept control. The striker went close twice, first with a powerful effort and then with a placed strike, but Luíz Júnior denied him each time.

• The Norwegian has now scored in nine straight matches.
• Manchester City controlled possession with 69% in the first half.
• Villarreal recorded only a few of attempts on target.

In the end, it was a professional display from City, who carry on their strong form in Europe.