Manchester City welcome West Bromwich Albion in their last home game of the season at the Etihad Stadium. City’s fate is in their own hands and if they manage to clinch two wins out of the remaining two matches they are guaranteed a top-four spot in the Premier League table.
Pep Guardiola’s maiden season in the Premier League proved to be a very tricky one as this is the first time in his career he is on the verge of finishing a season without any trophy. And if City somehow fail to grab a place in the top four it would be a very shambolic end to a season for a manager like him.
The last few results might not have gone in West Brom’s favour but the Baggies still are one of the most respected teams in the Premier League this season. With such limited resources, Tony Pulis has managed to pull off some miraculous results as they have consolidated their eight position this term.
Team News And Predicted Lineups
The availability of Gabriel Jesus has sent Sergio Aguero back to the bench. Jesus has been truly astonishing with his form and it seems Pep has his armour ready for the next season. Fernandinho is likely to slot back in the right back position as Guardiola is set to go into the match with only a defensive midfielder. Although John Stones is fully fit, Pep will unlikely to risk him.
Caballero; Clichy, Otamendi, Kompany, Fernandinho; Toure; Sane, De Bruyne, Silva, Sterling; Jesus
West Bromwich Albion
This is a very important match as Pulis would be hoping to rattle City’s Champions League hopes. Gareth McAuley injured himself in the last match and had to be subbed off in. Marc Wilson will take his place in the starting lineup.
Forster; Nyom, Evans, Wilson, Dawson; Fletcher; McClean, Livermore, Chadli, Brunt, Rondon
Key Player
Manchester City
David Silva
Silva has been the defining player for the last couple of seasons. The Spaniard has the ability to penetrate any kind of defence and with the team up against West Brom, Pep would need him to perform.
West Bromwich Albion
Jonny Evans
The defender has been a revelation in the Baggies defence as he has been the stand alone performer for them. Baggies defence has done a credible job this season and much credit goes to this player.