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Man City player ratings vs Newcastle as Erling Haaland and team-mate get 5/10s

Manchester City squandered an opportunity to close the gap on Premier League leaders Arsenal, suffering a dramatic defeat in a frenzied match against Newcastle at St James' Park.

Despite a thrilling first half, neither side managed to break the deadlock. Gianluigi Donnarumma made several crucial saves for the visitors, while Phil Foden and Erling Haaland missed golden opportunities for City, who were also denied a penalty.

The goal-fest began in the last 30 minutes of the game, with Harvey Barnes putting Newcastle ahead with a clever finish, only for Ruben Dias to equalise almost instantly.

However, Barnes was quick to respond, netting his second goal within seven minutes from a corner rebound. And Express Sport rates and slates the players.

Manchester City player ratings vs Newcastle (4-3-2-1)

Gianluigi Donnarumma: 7

Despite making three spectacular saves from Nick Woltemade, he couldn't prevent defeat. He was booked again for protesting after the second goal, having been targeted at a corner.

Matheus Nunes: 6

After a shaky start against Barnes, he recovered well but still saw his direct opponent score twice. His attacking play wasn't at its best, but it was a challenging game for him.

Ruben Dias: 7

Managed to score City's equaliser despite nursing a bleeding injury. He defended well and showed fierce competition at times.

Josko Gvardiol: 6

Amid the chaos of the first half, he had moments of calm but struggled as Woltemade increasingly dominated the game.

Nico O'Reilly: 6

His poor clearance led to the first goal, and Guardiola didn't hesitate to point that out. Despite some good moments in possession, it's hard to ignore his costly mistake.

Nico Gonzalez: 5

Struggled to gain control of the match, particularly in the first half, with Guardiola frequently offering advice.

Bernardo Silva: 6

Impressive against Liverpool where he set the pace, but failed to replicate that performance here. Found Newcastle's physical midfield challenging.

Phil Foden: 6

Should have been awarded a penalty and should have scored as well. Perhaps City's best opportunity of the first half, which would have crowned an excellent move.

Rayan Cherki: 6

Set up Foden's chance brilliantly but had few other standout moments. Occasionally tried to be too clever and is still learning when to play.

Jeremy Doku: 6

City's top attacking threat in the first half but faded after half-time. The criticism is that he doesn't consistently deliver his best performances.

Erling Haaland: 5

Made contributions in his own box but had an unusual off day in the opposition's. Should have netted at least twice in the first half. Had he done so, the game could have taken a different turn.

Substitutes

Tijjani Reijnders: 6

Failed to make a significant impact.

Savinho: 5

Missed a golden opportunity to level the score.

Oscar Bobb: 6

Showed quick footwork in the box but his shot was blocked.

Omar Marmoush: 6

Had little time to influence the game.

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