‘Quite rightly so’, ‘What a lad’ – Man City fans react as star ace ‘Privately’ named as unofficial man of the match against Atletico Madrid

Manchester City fans have been reacting to a post on Twitter which relays a report that claims Oleksandr Zinchenko was ‘Privately’ named as unofficial man of the match for role in Melee against Atletico Madrid.

City went through 1-0 on aggregate after playing out a goalless draw at the Wanda Metropolitano against the La Liga champions.

Atletico pushed City hard in the second half and pegged the Premier League leaders back near their own box for much of proceedings.

As the tension in the stadium built, some Atletico players lost their heads. Felipe was sent off for two bookings in the closing minutes, while former City player Stefan Savic was fortunate to avoid a red too after instigating a melee after Felipe’s second caution for felling Phil Foden.

As the Premier League champions successfully kept their heads unlike the hosts, certain players were given special credit for maintaining their composure in the heat of the battle.

According to James Ducker and Mike McGrath of the Telegraph, Zinchenko has ‘privately’ been hailed as the unofficial Man of the Match by figures within the Manchester City team for his key role in protecting Phil Foden, after Stefan Savic charged at the player in an attempt to drag him off the floor.

The report was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.

Here’s what the Man City fanbase have been saying online…

“Quite rightly so. I dread to think what would have happened if he hadn’t been in the position he was to protect Phil ”
Credit: @Andrea_B1

“Love him so much”
Credit: @DeBrxyne17

“What a lad, love him so much. Lost his spot but I hope he stays in the squad.”
Credit: @UnMijis

“That guy Zinchenko did really well, he ain’t just a defender in playing but protecting his teammate…thumbs up”
Credit: @AbbsObed

“The way he’s come of age is incredible. One of the best underdog stories out there.”
Credit: @7HRONE_

“What a guy he was having none of it”
Credit: @Fae36553524

“I hope we never sell Zinchenko. Love him.”
Credit: @MCFC_KxDxB

“The lads a blue he gives 1000% everytime he’s called upon & for me he more than holds his own and a bargain at £8m ?? so don’t know what the critism is regards him not being good enough, you need players like that in youre squad.”
Credit: @vedaddy