Three Takeaways from Manchester City’s First Pre Season Match

Manchester City is back on the pitch! They took on Preston in a friendly that featured many familiar faces. City would win 2-0.

City will play again Saturday v Barnsley in the final friendly for this season.

Before we get to the on field takeaways, a couple of notes. I love the new kit. It’s very nice and fresh, looks great on the pitch. Pep’s fashion remains immaculate. One more is their may not be as much rotation as last season as the squad shrinks and more young players may be promoted.

Let’s get on to the takeaways.

1 Riyad Mahrez and Ruben Dias will be integral pieces this season

The two players started and Dias did so with just one practice under his belt after a well deserved holiday. Both will be crucial to City’s hope in all competitions this upcoming season and other than Ederson should be in the first couple of places as minute earners.

Mahrez played real well and scored a fantastic free kick. If both o these players are firing on all cylinders, Man City might win a significant amount.

2 James McAtee can play

The young midfielder can really go. Many on social media said he reminded them of a young David Silv and I agree. He played well in a cameo role and assisted the goal to have City go up 2-0. This could be a revelation moment as he is et to train for the first team and could make several appearances this season.

3 Nathan Ake Says Hello

Ake played well and reminded most of us why he can play for City. He was calm, composed and played mistake free football. He will be an excellent backup and could even start in pinches as he has shown he can play.

Lastly, Pep spoke after the match and is still a fun talker-

That will do it. What did you see out of this match?