Pep Guardiola rang the changes, dropping Raheem Sterling to the bench following a week where he was the centre of attention - albeit through no fault of his own.
Sergio Aguero and Kevin de Bruyne were fit enough to take their places on the bench alongside the Englishman, paving the way for Gabriel Jesus and Leroy Sane to steal the show.
The German caused danger every time he got down the left flank, despite Marco Silva opting to go with five at the back in an attempt to stifle the reigning Champions. It was no better going forward for the 'Toffees', with Richarlison in particular guilty of missing two or three good chances.
Goals either side of half-time from Jesus, both assisted by Sane, put City in the driving seat with the impetus on them to get a result. Dominic Calvert-Lewin breifly reduced the arrears before Sterling came off the bench to score within minutes, Jesus turning provider this time.
It is a result that temporarily takes City back to the summit. Pep Guardiola had expressed his hopes that his side could quickly get back on track after a defeat to Chelsea last week, and he will be delighted with the response.
City are back ahead of Liverpool, with Jurgen Klopp's side facing a difficult game against Manchester United tomorrow. Everton have missed the chance to cement their status as a real contender for the European places this season.
Over to you, @LFC#MCIEVE pic.twitter.com/RlDZoFBNDv
— Premier League (@premierleague) 15 December 2018