Everton kept their composure intact in the Europa League as Ronald Koeman’s side edged past a blunderful HNK Hajduk Split side 2-0 in the first leg of the play-off. Although the Toffees are yet to visit Croatia to cement their place in the European tournament, Koeman’s squad look confident of attaining it.
They were true to their promise in the domestic league last weekend as they overcame a strong Stoke City side 1-0. However, the real challenge comes next as they visit Etihad Stadium to play Manchester City in the second game of the Premier League. Whatever the outcome, it will answer many questions that has sprung following the crazy spending by both the teams this summer.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Everton Line-up vs Manchester City
Defence
The position under the bar should be taken by Jordan Pickford. The young Englishman was picked up by Koeman owing to his outlandish reflexes that he exhibited for Sunderland. Although Everton boast of a far better defence than the Black Cats, chances are that City would test Pickford more times than he has generally been in an Everton shirt.
Koeman hasn’t stuck to a fixed back line this season so far with a back three and back four taking turns. We expect the Dutch gaffer to go with a back four against City. Having three at the back means Koeman is risking one extra forward, which is absolutely unnecessary against City.
We expect Everton to start with Leighton Baines and Cuco Martina on the defensive flanks with Michael Keane and Ashley Williams taking the central defence. They are expected to sit deep and hit City on the counter that has seen their opponents fetching results against the Sky Blues previously.
Midfield
The two-man midfield of Morgan Schneiderlin and Idrissa Gueye will continue taking their place in the middle. Gueye would be riding high in confidence following his goal against HNK Hajduk Split midweek and would miss no chance going forward. However, we expect them to be more defensive against the likes of David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne.
The number 10 position is likely to be taken by Davy Klaassen. The Dutch playmaker hasn’t been able to make a mark so far, but Koeman has high expectations from him.
Attack
New arrival Gylfi Sigurdsson is more than likely to start in his preferred left flank as Kevin Mirallas’ poor form continues. The right wing is likely to be taken by Everton’s latest star Dominic Calvert-Lewin. With Sandro Ramirez suffering a slight knock, Koeman isn’t expected to start with him.
Wayne Rooney will lead the attack.
