Crisis averted then for Manchester City. Or perhaps that should read crisis postponed? The champions of England escaped the league phase and through a certain prism, there is a case to be made that Pep Guardiola's side are well into the post-nadir period of their season.

Victory over Club Brugge on Wednesday night ensured Manchester City's place in the Champions League play-offs - where Bayern Munich or Real Madrid await

A fire broke out at a merchandise stand outside Manchester City’s stadium shortly before players were due to arrive for the Champions League match against Brugge.