With an eye on the third place, Manchester City will host West Bromwich Albion in their final game at the Etihad Stadium. City have struggled with their defence this term as Pep Guardiola failed to nurture his backline. The arrival of John Stones could not do the job as the English international has struggled to cope with the situation. While they are favourites to finish in the Top 4, the job is still not over and City need to win their remaining two games to confirm their European status. Thus, we might not see much change from Pep Guardiola.
City are undefeated in the last five matches but West Brom could be a very stringent opponent. The Baggies have maintained their distance from the relegation throughout this season and have emerged as one of the best defensive sides this season.
Predicted 4-1-4-1 Manchester City Lineup Against West Bromwich Albion
Defence
With Claudio Bravo out for the season, Willy Caballero is expected to remain in the goal for the remaining matches. He was good with his outings in the last few matches but he had nothing much to do as the opposition hardly attacked in these matches.
Vincent Kompany has been very good since he returned to the starting lineup and has lent solidity to the City defence.
Nicolas Otamendi has been a suitable presence in the defence and he will continue to be a mainstay.
Fernandinho will be in a different role as he will be in an unusual right back position. He has done a decent role in this new role and Pep will deploy him again in that position.
Gael Clichy has not been at his best but he is expected to grace the left flank.
Midfield
It is reported that City have offered Yaya Toure a new deal to stay at the Etihad. The Ivorian has been a late bloomer with his thumping performance in the midfield.
David Silva has been one of the trickiest playmakers in the Premier League right now. The Spaniard lacks pace but his attacking ability is still in his prime. He will start in the attacking midfield role alongside Kevin De Bruyne
Attack
The attacking unit of City is one of the best in the Europe right now. Leroy Sane has owned the left flank since his inclusion and he will start from there.
Raheem Sterling will be on the opposite wing to create pressure.
Gabriel Jesus will be at the forefront.
