It seems crazy to consider Pep Guardiola was actually being asked about Manchester City lacking a cutting edge. A ruthless streak may have eluded City at Nottingham Forest last weekend and in Leipzig in midweek but there was no questioning their attacking output here, as City bludgeoned Bournemouth 4-1, a scoreline they eased towards with almost half of the game to play.
First-half goals by Julián Álvarez, Erling Haaland and Phil Foden earned City a comprehensive buffer before Chris Mepham’s own goal increased their advantage. Jefferson Lerma rattled in a consolation with seven minutes to play but City were always going to return within two points of leaders Arsenal, who have played one game fewer. The nip-and-tuck race continues.
