Sporting calendar hit by regional instability with tournaments in the Gulf abandoned
Though Manchester City’s victory on Saturday doesn’t confirm them as Premier League champions, it almost certainly ruled their opponents Chelsea out of the title race.
There is now a gap of 13 points between City in first and Thomas Tuchel’s side in second, with both having played 22 games.
Kevin De Bruyne’s second-half goal extended his side’s winning run to 12 games in a row. October was the last time they lost a league game.
It’s difficult to see anyone catching Pep Guardiola’s side this season, even Liverpool who have played a game less.
Not just because of the points gap but because of how convincing City look in each game they play, and how their key players are coming into form at a key moment in the season.
Midfielders De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva are known for their technical ability, and the former’s goal was an example of it, but on top of this they consistently outwork their opponents in midfield.
That’s difficult to do when your opposite numbers are N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic but still they managed it.
This combination of industry and technique looks like it will see City to another title.
The powerhouse Liverpool forward secured a record-breaking 90 per cent of the vote, while Arsenal’s Alessia Russo topped a wide field to win the women’s award, writes JAMES NALTON
As the historic ground prepares for its emotional farewell, even visiting teams like Manchester City are paying tribute to one of English football’s most storied stadiums, writes JAMES NALTON



