Julian Alvarez - players.bio

Juanma Lillo and Rodri admissions show Man City are still evolving from last season

The start of Manchester City's treble defence has hardly been ideal.

Julian Alvarez is quietly making Man City's Phil Foden decision harder to manage

Julian Alvarez was often the first Manchester City player to be dropped last season, back-up to Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland and only getting a chance when one wasn't selected. With De Bruyne injured this season, and two experienced departures in attacking midfield, Alvarez has stepped up in the early stages of this season, starting all four competitive games so far. He was the matchwinner against Newcastle, but it was Phil Foden who stole the headlines.

Watch: Manchester City Fan Invades Pitch, Celebrates Goal With Erling Haaland

Manchester City extended their perfect start to the Premier League season as Rodri sealed a dramatic 2-1 win against Sheffield United after Erling Haaland scored once and missed a penalty for the champions on Sunday. Haaland drove a first half spot-kick against the post before his header put City in front after the break at Bramall Lane. City were in danger of squandering the points when Jayden Bogle equalised against the run of play with just five minutes left. But Rodri saved City with a blistering strike three minutes later as Pep Guardiola's side moved to the top of the table after a third successive victory. City's latest success was achieved without Guardiola, who was watching on television while he recuperates after back surgery in Barcelona.