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Kevin De Bruyne went off to a standing ovation and a huge hug from Pep Guardiola.

This was right up there with one of De Bruyne's best performances, single-handedly destroying Manchester United at the Etihad.

De Bruyne was substituted in the 80th minute, his job done with two goals and an assist for Riyad Mahrez as Manchester City sent out a clear message of intent in the title race while they embarrassed United in the process.

It was actually quite an even first half, hard fought and a tough derby contest. But towards the end of the second half, the gap between the two Manchester rivals had never felt bigger.

City ended up toying with United, the fans going through their repertoire of songs in delight. Even the prawn sandwich brigade in the Tunnel Club were doing the Poznan while the away end just sat in stunned silence and disbelief.

Guardiola’s men are six points clear again at the top - admittedly having played a game more than Liverpool - but if this was supposed to be a test of their mettle there are no signs they are about to crack.

The bigger worry for United was the absolute shambles in defence, Harry Maguire is suffering badly and Ralf Rangnick will be even more concerned at the way his players just waved the white flag when they went 3-1 down.

It was shameful.

United looked dangerous in the first half, woeful after half time and that was partly down to City’s dominance but partly down to their own failings. Now their place in the top four looks in