Who Were The 3 Standout Players From Cherries Defeat vs Manchester City?

Following his arrival from Portuguese giants Benfica, and being the successor of Marcos Senesi, Antonio Silva had a lot of expectation going into the game yesterday. 

When Senesi was at Cherries, he received most of his plaudits due to his excellent passing, as well as his defensive contributions (clearances, blocks and key interceptions). The 22 year old racked up an impressive 13 defensive contributions throughout the 90 minutes, as well as having a 92% passing accuracy, which is key when playing against a high pressing team like Manchester City.

Silva looked composed on the ball, was keen to build out from the back as well as going longer and more direct when necessary, and most importantly looked to be more than adequate physically. Even though James Hill didn't have the best game, his counterpart didn't look to be phased by his defensive partner struggling at times. 

Yet again, Marcus Tavernier showed yesterday as to why he should be known and appreciated as one of, if not the most consistent and trustworthy players in this Bournemouth team. That partnered with his versatility across the pitch has proved crucial to Cherries recent success since the 27 year olds arrival from Championship side Middlesborough.

Tavernier was unlucky to have not picked up a brace in the first half, as just minutes after his well taken opening goal, the winger had a curling effort from 25 yards out creep just wide of the post. 

With Rayan having a quieter game than usual, it was essential that Tavernier was on top of his game on the opposite flank. He looked threatening every time he received the ball, was direct when running at defenders and was arguably AFCB's most creative outlet on the pitch.

With him only scoring 6 goals in the Premier League last season, Evanilson has a huge 26/27 campaign ahead of him. The Brazilian's linkup and holdup play has been a clear strength of his since Cherries signed him for a club record fee in 2024, which is why he is a mainstay in this Bournemouth team despite his under par goal scoring tally in the last 12 months. 

Notching an assist yesterday was the reward that the 26 year old deserved for all of his hard work in the first half, with the ball that was played across the 18 yard box being inch perfect, so good that Tavernier didn't need to break his stride nor take a touch before slotting the ball past an outstretched Donnarumma.

If Evanilson can work on his composure in front of goal this campaign, he will be one of the most complete strikers in the Premier League.