Aston Villa ratings
4-2-3-1
6 Orjan Nyland
The Norway international was given the nod ahead of Pepe Reina, yet had no chance for either goal.
6 Marvelous Nakamba
The midfielder’s job was to break up play in midfield and ensure Villa retained possession.
6 Frederic Guilbert
Gave Rodri far too much space for the second goal, but was involved in a fine second-half battle with Sterling.
6 Ahmed Elmohamady
Brought in to provide experience to the midfield, but his crossing was frequently wayward.
7 Bjorn Engels
Given the task of marking Aguero, he produced some outstanding blocks. Brilliantly denied by Bravo late on.
6 Jack Grealish
Desperate to provide the sparkle, but this was a rare afternoon where he struggled to take a grip of the game.
7 Tyrone Mings
Struggled early on, but then improved, with his positional sense and calmness on the ball helping Villa stem the tide.
6 Anwar El Ghazi
Linked up well with Grealish and produced the cross for Samatta’s goal, but faded in the second half.
5 Matt Targett
Caught out at the back post for the opening goal and was frequently given a torrid time by Foden.
6 Mbwana Samatta
The Tanzania international took his goal well, but Villa could not provide any more opportunities.
7 Douglas Luiz
Signed from City in the summer, he did impress with his breaks forward, but his decision-making was often awry.
Substitutions
Trezeguet (Elmohamady 70) Conor Hourihane (El Ghazi 70) Keinan Davis (Samatta 80). Not used Pepe Reina (g), Neil Taylor, Henri Lansbury, Ezri Konsa.