Man City vs Brentford player ratings: Two stars get 4/10 as Pep Guardiola gamble fails

Manchester City have thrown away a two-goal lead at Brentford as Pep Guardiola's woes continue.

A second-half brace from Phil Foden had given the Premier League champions a seemingly unassailable lead.

This did not prove enough, however, with Brentford scoring two late goals to salvage a point.

Although it was not a defeat, it was another example of City's frailties this season, as the four-in-a-row champions face an uphill battle to finish in the top four.

Express Sport distributes player ratings from Manchester City's 2-2 draw against Brentford…

Ortega – 6

There wasn't much he could have done regarding the goals, but he looked less than convincing playing the role of sweep keeper.

Nunes – 4

He was again started at right-back and struggled with Brentford's direct play on the wing. He should also have broken the deadlock in the first half when he broke through behind the Bees backline.

Akanji – 4

Was carried by his central partner Nathan Ake. Sleepy for Brentford's first goal and at sea for the equalizer. He will welcome the new arrivals in defense because this should allow him to rest.

Ake – 9

This could have easily ended in defeat without his conscience at the back. Popped up with two superb clearances off the line, one with the score at 1-0 and another with the teams tied at 2-2.

Gvardiol – 6

Personifies City's season in one word. Cool, classy and composed at times. Precarious, uncertain and a handicap for others.

Kovacic – 5

It's not his fault, but he looks completely overwhelmed playing the midfield role alone in a Guardiola team. Struggled with Brentford's transitions and was hooked 15 minutes from time.

De Bruyne – 8

The main heartbeat of everything positive for City. Created the most chances during a goalless first half and was rewarded with a classy assist for Foden's second-half opener.

Bernardo – 6

Typically busy with his energy, but arguably he is another City player struggling with the arduous demands of playing twice a week.

Foden – 8

Played with a swagger that was missing for most of the current campaign. He scored his first goal in style and showed his clinical side by being lively in the box for City's second. He reportedly felt disappointed in his teammates that his contributions didn't lead to three points.

Savinho – 8

It's taken a while, but he's starting to establish himself in a City shirt. He stretched the home team's defense throughout the evening and posed a constant goal threat.

Haaland – 6

It was by no means his best game for the Blues, but he gave everything he could. He showed great strength with his hold-up play for the first goal and would have liked more service from his teammates, who failed to spot him.

Submarines:

Gundogan – 6

Brought to see the game, but still lacks the physicality City are looking for in Rodri's absence.

McAtee – 6

I was lucky to make it 3-1 moments before Brentford scored the equalizer. He'll be happy as his minutes start to pile up.