Manchester City shift their attention back to the Premier League as they play hosts to West Ham on Saturday. The Citizens are coming on the back of a comfortable 2-0 victory over Borussia Monchengladbach in their midweek Champions League fixture -a result that extended their winning run to 19 matches in all competition. Pep Guardiola’s men will be eying that round number this weekend.
Predicted Manchester City Lineup Vs West Ham
Defence
Pep Guardiola is unlikely to make too many alterations in defence, especially in the fullback positions where both Kyle Walker and Joao Cancelo have been critical to their success this campaign.
Walker should operate in a traditional right-back role while Cancelo will once again be deployed in the hybrid midfield/fullback position to further aid Man City in the build-up play.
In central defence, Aymeric Laporte was given a rare start alongside Ruben Dias in midweek. However, the Frenchman is likely to make way for John Stones this weekend, although there should be no changes in goal as Ederson Moraes looks to continue his excellent run of clean sheets.
Midfield
There could potentially be one change in central midfield as Kevin de Bruyne was rested in midweek. The Belgian is hoping to replace Bernardo Silva, as he renews his partnership with Ilkay Gundogan in the advanced midfield positions.
Fernandinho is usually an option in the holding midfield role should Guardiola opt to make changes. The Brazilian may get the nod ahead of Rodri as well, knowing West Ham’s strong midfield unit that would require some experience.
Attack
Pep Guardiola needs to make some important decisions in the attacking department. Sergio Aguero made his first appearance since January in the midweek game against Gladbach and given Gabriel Jesus’ lack of confidence in front of goal, we might see the Argentine receiving a welcome start in his favoured number nine role this weekend.
There could be changes elsewhere as well, with Phil Foden making way for Riyad Mahrez. Ferran Torres is another option, although the youngster is only likely to feature as a substitute. Mahrez, therefore, should start at right-wing, with captain Raheem Sterling operating on the opposite flank. The Englishman has a point to prove after being taken off early against Gladbach in the last game.
