Burnley can be called as a giant killer given their free-flowing performance against the top teams this season. The Clarets have already accumulated wins against Chelsea and Everton and have snatched points from Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool.
But this weekend they will come face to face against a Manchester City side who have already lit up the Premier League with their rich attacking display. Pep Guardiola’s side have been in stupendous form and have already taken the top tier by a storm.
Burnley are known for their tight defending but Sean Dyche has a very tough task to cut out against a side who have hit Stoke City for seven in the last match. Despite losing Andre Gray and Michael Keane in this summer, the Clarets have steered their way to this position and are likely to offer a tough challenge to the Sky Blues.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Burnley Starting Lineup Against Manchester City
Defence
Nick Pope’s inclusion to the team has turned out to be a blessing in disguise as the 25-year-old has been pretty energetic with his consistent display on goal. The absence of Tom Heaton hasn’t been felt so far but his actual test will be in this match when he will be up against the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Kevin De Bruyne.
Ben Mee and James Tarkowski have formed a pretty commendable partnership at the back and they need to continue their struggle in this match. In the last season, City got the better off the Clarets by a single goal margin in both the matches so it would be a daunting task for the Clarets backline.
Stephen Ward has been a regular this season and will try to stop the attack from left-back position. Matthew Lowton will operate from the right side.
Midfield
Dyche would be relying a lot on Jack Cork whose awareness in the midfield will be pivotal in this match. The defensive midfielder needs to ensure that they stay rigid in the middle of the pitch to deny the Man City players.
Steven Defour will be tasked to give Cork the necessary assistance in the midfield.
Attack
Scott Arfield and Robbie Brady will be on the wings and will try to keep the flanks mobile as much as possible. Jeff Hendrick will try his luck from the no. 10 position.
Burnley’s performance away from home has improved a lot and the credit should go to Chris Wood. The New Zealand international will lead the challenge. Here is how they might line up:
