Cherki genius and Wharton excels - Palace v Man City player ratings
August 28, 2026 21:01
Manchester City defeated Crystal Palace 4-1 at Selhurst Park as they extended a winning start to the Premier League under new manager Enzo Maresca. Rayan Cherki and Erling Haaland both found the net twice in the victory; Palace’s Gianluigi Donnarumma was credited with an own goal from a Yeremy Pino free‑kick.
Palace had moments of threat — Dean Henderson produced an early save and Adam Wharton was a standout in midfield — but the visitors ultimately imposed themselves and ran out comfortable winners.
KEY CONTEXT
- City’s positive run under Enzo Maresca continued with this result.
- The BBC ratings singled out Cherki (8) as the game’s top performer and awarded Haaland a 7; Haaland has now scored in all six of his Premier League appearances at Selhurst Park.
- Palace midfield youngster Adam Wharton received praise for composure, vision and passing (rated 7) despite his side being overrun later in the match.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Cherki’s eye-catching performance provided City with creative spark and a direct goal threat, reinforcing why he featured prominently in the match assessments.
- Haaland’s continued scoring at Selhurst Park underlines his consistent impact at this venue.
- For Palace, individual positives such as Wharton’s midfield display and early defensive interventions did not prevent a heavy defeat, highlighting gaps the side will need to address.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether Manchester City can sustain Maresca’s winning start in their coming league fixtures.
- How Palace respond to being outplayed in midfield and whether Wharton can remain a driving presence as the team seeks better collective performances.
- The development and selection of Palace’s attacking options after missed chances in this match.
KEY FACTS
- Final score: Crystal Palace 1–4 Manchester City at Selhurst Park.
- Both Rayan Cherki and Erling Haaland scored twice.
- Donnarumma conceded an own goal from a Yeremy Pino free‑kick.
- Adam Wharton was rated 7 for his composure, vision and passing.
- Erling Haaland has scored in each of his six Premier League appearances at Selhurst Park.