Jeremy Doku contributed to one goal and played a key role in creating four more as Manchester City, despite Erling Haaland’s injury, achieved their most significant victory of the season against a struggling Bournemouth side, propelling them to the top of the Premier League.
Bernardo Silva capitalized twice on well-crafted passes from the Belgian player, who is in competition with Jack Grealish for the left-sided attacking role in Manchester City’s lineup. Phil Foden also found the back of the net, and Nathan Ake’s diving header in the 88th minute added to the tally.
Doku, who was acquired in the summer for £55.4 million from Rennes, proved to be a formidable force against Andoni Iraola’s team. He opened the scoring in a burst of three goals within seven minutes after Bournemouth had successfully held off their opponents for the first half-hour.
Doku skillfully maneuvered towards the byline to create an opening for a cut-back that allowed Bernardo to secure his second goal of the season. Additionally, he delivered a brilliantly executed through ball that gave the Portuguese maestro the chance to delicately chip the ball past Andrei Radu.
The third goal came as Doku’s shot deflected off Manuel Akanji. Furthermore, he was the provider of a superb through ball that led to Foden scoring City’s fourth goal in the 64th minute of the second half.
Foden came on at halftime to replace Haaland, who appeared to be grappling with a leg muscle issue as the first half concluded.
Luis Sinisterra managed to score a goal for Bournemouth. If Luton avoids defeat against Liverpool on Sunday, Bournemouth will find themselves in the relegation zone.
Doku shines amid Haaland injury concern
A key factor contributing to Haaland’s prolific goal-scoring record for City is his remarkable consistency in not missing many matches.
During his time at Dortmund, Haaland experienced three periods of absence, each lasting approximately a month. However, since joining the Premier League, his longest absence has been just a few matches.
Nonetheless, it became evident that something was amiss when he didn’t make an attempt to reach a low cross from Julian Alvarez just before halftime.
He responded by flexing his leg a couple of times and appeared to be moving at an unusually slow pace as he conversed with Alvarez on their way to the tunnel.
Undoubtedly, if there’s one team capable of coping with the absence of a player who has scored 65 goals in 68 games, it’s the reigning champions, City.
By defeating Bournemouth, they extended their impeccable home game record in all competitions for 2023 to 22 wins. They have now achieved 14 consecutive victories against Bournemouth, setting a Premier League record with 13 straight league wins against the Cherries.
Nevertheless, considering the upcoming trip to Chelsea next weekend and matches against Liverpool, Tottenham, and Aston Villa immediately following this month’s international break, Guardiola would prefer the issue to be a short-term one.
However, when facing less formidable opponents, Haaland’s absence was not a hindrance as Doku assumed the spotlight.
While the Belgian’s goal, which came after a one-two with Rodri and a shot from inside the box, was exceptional, his assists were arguably even more impressive.
Foden was quick to acknowledge the 21-year-old for his ability to spot him in a pocket of space within the Bournemouth box and deliver a precise pass through a congested area of players.
Doku had already skillfully maneuvered towards the byline to set up Bernardo once. The elegant pass that set the same player in motion for a superb finish, sealing City’s fifth goal, was truly magnificent.
Scott’s Bournemouth injury fear
Bournemouth faced another significant setback, compounding their struggles, particularly in goal difference, on a day when they found it challenging to meet even modest pre-match expectations.
Alex Scott, the young midfielder who had only recently made his debut, having joined from Bristol City in the summer, suffered an injury. The 20-year-old, who earned the nickname “the Guernsey Grealish” due to his outstanding performance for his previous club in the same stadium last season, appeared to be trying to shake off a leg injury as he encountered Rodri in the City penalty area.
The resulting block tackle left Scott lying on the ground in evident pain. There was no possibility of him continuing, and as the £25 million acquisition was assisted to the dressing room, Iraola offered a comforting word, presumably hoping privately that the injury might not be as severe as it initially appeared.