Manchester City continued their push for a Champions League spot with a 2-0 win over struggling Leicester City at the Etihad Stadium. Goals from Jack Grealish and Omar Marmoush sealed the victory as Pep Guardiola’s side climbed to fourth in the Premier League standings.
Grealish, making his first league start since December, wasted no time making an impact, scoring just two minutes into the match after a cutback from Savinho. It was his first Premier League goal in nearly 16 months and marked a crucial return to form.
Omar Marmoush doubled City’s lead in the 29th minute, capitalizing on a mistake by Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen. The Egyptian forward, who stepped in for the injured Erling Haaland, has now scored five goals in the Premier League since joining in January.
The match was overshadowed by a protest from Manchester City fans against rising season ticket prices, with many supporters deliberately entering the stadium late. Despite the subdued atmosphere, City maintained control throughout the game, rarely allowing Leicester a chance to respond.
Leicester, now facing the grim reality of relegation, have lost 14 of their last 15 league matches and remain 12 points adrift from safety. The Foxes’ struggles were evident, as they failed to register a shot on target in the second half, with their best chance coming early in the game when Bilal El Khannouss’ curling effort drifted wide.
Pep Guardiola, watching from the stands due to a touchline ban, will be pleased with his team’s performance, especially from Grealish, who played in an advanced midfield role. Meanwhile, Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy’s decision to replace Jamie Vardy at halftime for defensive midfielder Oliver Skipp was met with criticism from fans.
With only eight games remaining, Leicester’s chances of survival look bleak, while Manchester City’s quest for Champions League football remains firmly on track. The Foxes could see their fate sealed before the end of April if their dismal form continues.
