SPORT: Five reasons why Manchester City have started so well this season

Manchester City are currently first in both the Premier League and their respective Champions League group. They have won all of their league games except one draw to Everton and boast a one hundred percent record in Europe, impressively defeating Napoli both home and away.

The Citizens are not just winning but are looking extremely impressive in their victories. Last season's defensive frailties are no longer apparent and the team is now more than able to dismantle any opposition at will.

It seems that manager Pep Guardiola is set to continue his impressive managerial record after a trophy-less first season in England. Here we take a look five reasons why City have been running riot this season:

1. Pep Guardiola's tactics

Pep Guardiola arrived at the blue side of Manchester with a huge reputation, but also under a lot of expectations due to his antics with Barcelona and Bayern Munich. His team started well and won all of their first ten matches in all competitions.

However, by 23rd October 2016 they had gone five games without a win and City's form was inconsistent for the rest of the trophy-less season. Guardiola's tactical approach was accused of being too rigid and unable to adapt to English football

As a result, the following summer involved somewhat of an overhaul at the club, in order for Guardiola to continue his same system.

His system has been named as the Tiki-taka style of football that relies on high possession retention and a high defensive line. He first developed and perfected the system while managing at his boyhood club of FC Barcelona.

Dutch legend Yohan Cruyff changed the footballing culture in the Catalan capital and when Frank Rijkaard lost his job in 2008, it was decided that then Barcelona B manager, Guardiola would replace him.

He won a club record of fourteen trophies in his four seasons before moving to German giants Bayern Munich. He would record further success here, winning the title in each of his three seasons.

City are currently reaping the benefits of his tactics and made it 10 consecutive wins in the league after their recent triumph over Leicester City away from home. However, it remains unknown as to whether Guardiola can maintain the high standard for the rest of the season, but if so, they could emulate his all-conquering Barcelona side.

2. Kevin De Bruyne's on a different level

The Belgian star arrived at the club in 2015 from Wolfsburg for a fee of £55 million. He had already played in the Premier League at Chelsea, but failed to make an impact due to the lack of opportunities and moved to the German club.

At the time of his return his transfer fee was heavily criticised. A very large fee for a player that Chelsea had allowed to leave for just £18 million three seasons prior.

However, the 2015 Footballer of the Year in Germany had scored 16 goals and assisted 27 times in the season prior to his Manchester move.

He has shown glimpses of form at City but nothing like what he showcased in the 2016-17 season. He has also shown the ability to find a teammate with a pass like not many others.