Pep hints at new roles for deadly duo

CITY eased into the fourth round of the FA Cup with a routine win over Huddersfield as Phil Foden continued his electric form and Kevin De Bruyne made his long-awaited return from injury.

- JOE BRAY

Foden shone again for City at number 10 with two goals and an assist, although the biggest cheer of the afternoon was for De Bruyne's introduction for the first appearance since the opening day. City continued their fine run in the FA Cup, beginning their title defence in ruthless fashion, while youngsters Oscar Bobb, Rico Lewis and debutant Jacob Wright all got a chance to impress.

The Blues will face tougher tests than this if they want to successfully defend their trophy but they ensured there was no upset this weekend, and they march on into the next round. These are the talking points from City's big win over Huddersfield on Sunday...

NEW PARTNERSHIP

On Friday, Pep Guardiola teased fans with the prospect of Foden and De Bruyne Bruyne playing centrally together, saying it's entirely possible the duo can both play in the pockets behind Erling Haaland. The manager clarified that by saying such a partnership may not be possible in games where more stability is needed, but this FA Cup clash with Huddersfield was not one of those occasions. So when De Bruyne made his return from injury after 148 days, it was the first chance to see both of them combine at the top of the pitch.

Foden went into the false nine position so it wasn't a dual number 10 role but it was an exciting glimpse into a new system. At one stage, Foden could be seen sprinting back as De Bruyne covered up front, with the younger player doing the running for his older team-mate. Foden stroked in a lovely fourth goal from De Bruyne's decisive pass into the box from a corner and the Belgian didn't need Foden at all to sprint forward and chip an assist for Jeremy Doku.

The dynamic will change when Haaland returns although it felt telling that Julian Alvarez made way on Sunday.