Former Arsenal players Alexi Iwobi, Emile Smith-Rowe and loanee Reiss Nelson featured in Saturday’s Premier League game between Manchester City and Fulham at the Etihad Stadium.
The league holders beat the London club 3-2, but struggled throughout the game. Fulham took a shock lead as Andreas Pereira scored from a brilliant pass from Raul Jiminez. A brace from Mateo Kovacic put City 2-1 ahead, Jeremy Doku came off the bench to make the game 3-1.
Reiss Nelson came off the bench and assisted Rodrigo Muniz to pull one back for Fulham but the game ended 3-2.
At the end of the game, City employed various time wasting tacticos and antics as they were under pressure – something Manuel Akanji accused Arsenal of doing two weeks ago.
Pep Guardiola calls Reiss Nelson a ‘quality’ player
After his cameo off the bench on Sunday, Pep Guardiola had nothing but praise for Reiss Nelson:
“It [Fulham] is a really, really good team. Marco [Silva] is a top manager who has been working there for many, many years already.
“They have players they bought in the summer, including the ones from Arsenal [Emile Smith-Rowe and Reiss Nelson] and they have a lot of quality.”
The forward completed all 10 of his passes, and created one big chance which was the assist for Muniz. Earlier this season, Fulham boss Marco Silva said Nelson would be very important to the club in the coming weeks.
“As you knew, we were looking for a winger. He can play left and right. We are really pleased to have him with us. The last day of the market was a really busy day.”
“You can see straightaway he is a skilful player,” said Silva.
“He is going to help us, he has a good pedigree from the last few seasons at Arsenal.
“Now is a moment for him to show his quality. He is going to be involved in the squad.”
Arsenal loanee finds playing time at Fulham
When Reiss Nelson joined the club on loan from Arsenal, he said playing time was the main reason for his decision.
“I spoke with the boss and he convinced me about the project. It was something I couldn’t turn down. The boss likes to play out from the back. He likes inverted wingers that can play with either foot and combine with the striker. I think that complements where I want to play.”
The 24-year old forward has two goals and an assist so far this season. He has been a great addition to Fulham’s attack.