Burnley 0-3 Man City: Player ratings as Premier League champions open season with victory
Manchester City kicked off the 2023/24 Premier League season with a clinical 3-0 win at Championship winners Burnley.
Golden Boot-holder Erling Haaland scored twice as the Cityzens began their defence of the title in ruthless fashion. Rodri added the champions' third in the second half.
Vincent Kompany's side gave Man City a few scares though were unable to maintain any constant threat, while Anass Zaroury was sent off late in the day for a dangerous tackle on Kyle Walker.
Just four minutes into the new season, Haaland scored his first goal. Kevin De Bruyne's cross following a corner was headed back across into the box by Rodri, and the Norwegian was quick to react and convert at the near post.
Soon after that opener, Burnley were incensed they weren't awarded a penalty when Manuel Akanji appeared to drag Zeki Amdouni to the ground, but referee Craig Pawson wasn't interested, nor was VAR Michael Oliver.
The hosts were looking a threat with their pressing and they nearly carved out another chance when Amdouni robbed Akanji of the ball, only for Rodri to retreat and win the ball back before he could pull the trigger.
After showing real signs of life, Burnley were dealt a sucker-punch when Man City added their second. Phil Foden released Walker down the left flank, and he in turn pulled the ball back for Julian Alvarez. Slightly off-balance, he shifted it to Haaland, who thundered in another off the underside of the crossbar.
Just after the break, James Trafford — making his Burnley debut against his former side — twice came up with pivotal saves. Firstly, he tipped a speculative long-range strike from Rodri over the top, before denying the Spaniard's strong header from the resulting corner.
Man City completed their rout 15
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