When facing a Pep Guardiola side, you can expect that you will spend a lot of the game chasing shadows. Historically he has introduced a possession-based style of play at the sides that he has managed. At City it has been no different, his side have averaged 58% possession in their Premier League games so far – the highest in the division.
Against West Brom they took that to another level, obtaining 70% of the possession throughout the game. They made good use of it too, scoring four goals with no reply from the home side. It affirmed their position at the top of the table.
The West Brom faithful saw the funny side of their mauling. A group of their fans were videoed singing “we’ve got the ball” when they did and “we’ve lost the ball” when they didn’t. Tony Pulis’ side are not necessarily known for creativity on the field, but their fans certainly can’t be accused of lacking it.