Manchester City continued their winning run this mid-week, as they put four past a struggling Swansea City side at the Liberty Stadium earlier this week. They are back in action this weekend, but face a tricky test against a Tottenham Hotspur side, that have now picked up two back to back victories in the domestic league.
Mauricio Pochettino’s men are fresh from a comfortable 2-0 victory against Brighton in the mid-week and this trip to the Etihad will be their toughest domestic game this season. Pep Guardiola’s side are yet to lose a game this season and will take some stopping, in the title race. But Spurs are definitely equipped to halt their winning run. Here is the predicted lineup Guardiola might field for this tie:
Team News:
Neither of John Stones or Benjamin Mendy are back in training and will remain sidelined for this game for City. Skipper Vincent Kompany is also struggling form a muscular injury and will not play a role in this tie.
Expected lineup (4-5-1):
Defense:
Ederson had a comfortable night at the Liberty Stadium but will surely be tested by a skilful Spurs attack on Saturday. He will be guarded by a four-man backline, which will see Nicolas Otamendi and Eliaquim Mangala, play at its heart. Neither player has a first team back up in the squad and will have to be at their best to stop the likes of Harry Kane at the back.
Kyle Walker was rested for the trip to Wales earlier in the week but should be back in action at right-back, facing his former side for the first time since moving to the Etihad. Fabian Delph, who has done a superb job at left-back, might have more defending to do than he did in the last few games.
Midfield:
Brazilian ace Fernandinho remains Guardiola’s first choice CDM. He will have his work cut out against the likes of Dembele and Alli in this crunch tie. Spanish playmaker David Silva and Belgian midfielder Kevin de Bruyne have both been unstoppable this season and will hope to put in an impressive display against Spurs.
They need to be kept quiet if the visitors are to take anything from this game. Former Liverpool star Raheem Sterling has been exceptional in front of goal this season and should keep his place on the right flank while Leroy Sane, who has tormented every right-back in the league, will start on the left flank.
Attack:
Sergio Aguero got himself on the score-sheet in the midweek and is usually productive in tough games. He should keep his place in the attack, leading the line for City.
Here is how they might line up:
