Manchester City concluded an outstanding year on a positive note, securing a victory against a resilient Sheffield United side and closing the gap to Premier League leaders Liverpool to just two points.
Rodri initiated the scoring for the defending champions early in the game, seizing on a well-placed pass from Phil Foden and driving a shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the area.
Due to Sheffield United’s compact defense, City had to wait for their second goal, which eventually came in the middle of the second half. Foden once again played a crucial role, delivering a precise low cross that Julian Alvarez efficiently dispatched.
Before the kick-off, City showcased all five major trophies they had clinched in 2023, including the recent Fifa Club World Cup. This display served as a powerful reminder to their competitors that they continue to be the team to beat this season. Additionally, the return of Kevin de Bruyne to the squad, after more than four months sidelined with a hamstring injury, further bolstered City’s prospects.
While De Bruyne didn’t see playing time in this match, his presence on the touchline during the second half elicited cheers from the home fans. In contrast, Sheffield United supporters had little to cheer about, witnessing their team struggle to mount a significant attack, particularly in the first half.
Once City secured their second goal, the outcome seemed inevitable, and Chris Wilder’s side remains at the bottom of the table without an away win this season.
