Arsenal supporters developed an embarrassing habit last term; a habit that saw them compare Laurent Koscielny to Vincent Kompany. On Saturday, the Belgian forced those offensive comparisons straight back down the throats of those deluded 'Gooners'.
Kompany gave a titanic performance at the heart of City's defence on Saturday; intercepting in key areas, muscling new-boy Danny Welbeck out of the picture and putting his beautifully chiseled body on the line to keep Joe Hart's hands cold.
Martin Demichelis and Eliaquim Mangala may fight for a place in Manuel Pellegrini's defence this season, but Kompany's slot in the back four is confirmed.
2. Jesus Navas provides something vital going forward; pace
The Spaniard may lack strength, but his lack of muscle is certainly made up for in pace. City's attacking play has lacked the enthusiasm it emanated last term, and the respective passing abilities of Yaya Touré, Samir Nasri and David Silva have been relied upon to unlock defences.
Against Stoke City a fortnight ago, the trusty trio couldn't find a key, and Manuel Pellegrini lacked a plan B. The Chilean envisaged large spells of Arsenal possession on Saturday, and his decision to employ Jesus Navas on the right flank presented City with an effective outlet on the counter-attack.
The Spaniard's speed and agility terrified Nacho Monreal throughout and fired the blues into an unexpected lead. Against teams that like to keep the ball, Navas should be considered more often.
3. City miss Touré
The Ivorian has been out of sorts so far this campaign, but the Ivorian undoubtedly offers an intimidating presence in the heart of City's midfield.
Frank Lampard and Fernandinho formed a rusty and unfit partnership on Saturday afternoon that Jack Wilshere was able to wriggle himself through, but Yaya's strength would have added strength to City's line up.
His importance to the team was evidenced by Pellegrini's decision to rest him completely for upcoming ties against Bayern Munich and Chelsea, but involvement on Saturday could have seen the champions pick up three crucial points.
