Manchester City romped to their seventh consecutive home game of the season against Swansea this afternoon thanks to goals from Alvaro Negredo and Samir Nasri. Here are five things we learned from the tie.
1) Nasri is a new man
Last season under Roberto Mancini Nasri scored just two Premier League goals in his 28 appearances, but this time round under Manuel Pellegrini he has scored four goals in his 13 outings, including his brace against the Swans today. He has also already made 29 key passes.
2) City are formidable at home
It is now 29 goals scored in City’s seven home league games this time round and just two goals conceded. If only their away form was so strong!
3) Swansea are the pass masters
Despite being out-gunned by the Etihad outfit, Michael Laudrup watched his men out-pass City. Swansea completed 521/587 of their passes (89%) while City only managed 438, although they did attempt far fewer (485) than the visitors.
4) City should stick to short passing
Pellegrini’s men completed just 3/21 of their crosses during the tie but completed 90% of their passes overall. With the likes of Samir Nasri, David Silva and Sergio Aguero in their side perhaps they should stick to popping it around on the floor.
5) Shelvey can pull the strings
The former Liverpool midfielder has had a mixed bag since he arrived in Wales but he showed just what he can do today. He completed an incredible 93% of his 71 attempted passes and made two clearances.