Moises Caicedo, Central midfielder: 6
It was interesting that Caicedo created a clear-cut chance, because he was otherwise average in everything he did on the day against the league leaders. He committed three fouls while winning 1/2 tackles. He also only won 2/6 ground duels. Only contesting two tackles is indicative of how impactful he was considering how the game went.
Enzo Fernandez, Central midfielder: 6
Fernandez was stifled, and because he is not particularly good at defending, he was a net negative versus the Citizens. He was restricted to just two long balls attempted, and he completed one of them. He went 1/3 for tackles. His distribution was poor on the day and he offered nothing defensively, though he won 4/7 ground duels.
Cole Palmer, Right winger: 7
Palmer’s rating is boosted by the composure he showed on a crucial penalty kick of the game. His overall game was rather underwhelming, though he got on the ball and tried some things. His ball usage was not great, and it’s difficult to remember him taking apart Man City’s defense with decisive passing. He did go on a solo run past some players in sky blue, but he was unable to put it past Ederson from close range.
Conor Gallagher, Central attacking midfielder: 8
Gallagher was one of Chelsea’s best performers on the night. His distribution, chance creation, goal creation, and defending were very key to keeping up with Man City. No Blues’ outfielder completed more long balls than the Englishman. He won 6/12 ground duels, and by winning 3/4 tackles he won more tackles on the day than Caicedo and Fernandez combined while contesting as much as both midfielders did, combined. The former Crystal Palace midfielder delivered a beautiful cross for Silva’s header and also took the shot that led to the rebound that Nicolas Jackson put in for 3-3.
Raheem Sterling, Left winger: 8
Sterling impacted the game in several ways, off the ball and in possession. His dribbling success rate was not spectacular but he gave Kyle Walker a difficult game. He was also very good defensively, tracking back and often winning the ball back with tackles. He won three fouls, including one where he ran to the top of his own box and protected the ball until he was fouled, completely relieving the Blues of pressure. He topped off a great performance with a goal that emphasized how deadly his positioning and anticipation are.