Pep Guardiola’s side are now unbeaten in 13 matches this season and have won 11 on the spin, equalling the Club record for consecutive victories.
The win over Burnley means they sit five points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
James Ducker, writing in the Telegraph, believes the win over Burnley showcased City’s ability to fight – and praised the solidity at the back as the Blues kept their eighth clean sheet in all competitions this season.
“This was the first time in a single season that City have won 11 consecutive matches,” Ducker writes. “And with rivals Manchester United suffering a shock defeat at Huddersfield, it allowed Pep Guardiola’s side to open up a five-point gap at the top of the Premier League table.
“However, this was not another case of Guardiola’s City slickers steam-¬rolling an opponent. Rather, it was a real test of City’s character, and Burnley were a handful right up until the moment when Nicolas Otamendi headed home Leroy Sane’s goal 17 minutes from time to give the league leaders the comfort of a two-goal cushion.
“Burnley had expended so much energy staying firmly in the game that the goal, from a set piece, was a crushing blow and within two minutes, Sean ¬Dyche’s deflated team had conceded again courtesy of a smart finish from Sane from another fine Kevin De Bruyne pass.
“That is what City do so well. They take games away from teams in almost the blink of an eye but also have a solidity to match their style, something lacking last term.”
It’s a theme picked up by David McDonnell, writing in the Mirror, who says City’s centre-back pairing deserve huge credit for City’s recent run of results.
“There was a time when the prolonged absence of skipper Vincent Kompany would have been a major cause for concern for City,” he writes.
“But with John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi forming such a formidable central defensive partnership, the enforced loss of Kompany has not been felt as keenly as it once might have been.
“Stones continues to grow in stature with every game, while Otamendi has improved immeasurably, capping another fine display with a headed goal.”
Meanwhile, there is some fresh transfer news this morning. According to the Sun, City have been linked with a move for Lyon defender Mouctar Diakhaby.
“Manchester City have put Mouctar Diakhaby on their shortlist of targets as a new centre-half,” writes Alan Nixon.
“Top spy Txiki Begiristain and co-assistant coach Mikel Arteta watched the 6ft 3in France Under-21 star play for Lyon at Everton in Thursday’s Europa League match.
“Diakhaby, 20, fits the bill as City boss Pep Guardiola looks for a defender who can play and is quick on his feet.”
That’s all for today, Blues. Stay with us throughout the day for more reaction to City’s win.
