A masterclass performance from Manchester City led to a commanding dismissal of champions Chelsea at Etihad Stadium.

Sergio Aguero had been thwarted three times by Chelsea keeper Asmir Begovic before giving City a deserved lead just after the half-hour, an advantage they never looked like losing. City’s superiority was emphasised with two more late goals as captain Vincent Kompany headed in David Silva’s corner and midfielder Fernandinho sent a thunderous finish past Begovic, whose excellent performance was just about the only positive for Chelsea.

City manager Manuel Pellegrini was left frustrated last season as his lavishly talented squad failed to live up to their potential, but they demonstrated a desire to reclaim the title Chelsea took from them last season.

Captain Kompany was a dominant figure, adding another goal to his first of the season at The Hawthorns and looking to have regained much of his old authority, barely giving Chelsea’s attack, led by the fiery Diego Costa, a chance.

Chelsea looked a long way short of the side that controlled the Premier League title race from start to finish last season. John Terry, who has been a reliable figure at the centre of the defence, was replaced at half-time, with Mourinho confirming afterwards that his captain was not carrying an injury.