Sunderland face an incredibly difficult challenge as they welcome in-form Manchester City to the Stadium of Light. This upcoming Premier League clash is scheduled for an electric Thursday night match under the lights (no pun intended lol).
The Black Cats are struggling with a thin squad as they approach this fixture. Specifically, AFCON 2025 has claimed several key squad members. This makes things much harder for their preparations against such a top-tier opponent.
Sunderland’s Predicted 4-2-3-1 Lineup For Their Premier League Clash With Manchester City:
Defence
Roefs will almost certainly retain his position between the posts. He knows he faces a busy evening against City’s potent forward line. The defensive quartet in front of him will need necessary adjustments.
The confirmed absences of defensive options like Reinildo, Arthur Masuaku, and the injured Ajibola Alese have forced these changes. Mukiele will likely start on the left flank.
He will be tasked with containing dangerous wide players, while Hume occupies the right-back role. The central defensive partnership will likely consist of Cirkin alongside Alderete. This duo must maintain exceptional concentration throughout the entire ninety minutes to prevent conceding opportunities against the likes of Haaland and Foden.
Midfield
The midfield needs to be tough and not give an inch. Particularly, the absence of key midfielders Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki on AFCON 2025 duty forces the manager to run a specific double pivot configuration.
Xhaka will provide essential experience and grit in the engine room. He will partner with Geertruida, whose defensive discipline is absolutely crucial against City’s passing movements.
Further up the pitch, Le Fee will operate directly behind the lone striker in the number ten role. He will look to create scoring opportunities whenever Sunderland manage to secure possession.
The youthful energy of Rigg on the left and the pace of Adingra on the right will support him. They will serve as vital outlets for quick counter-attacks.
Attack:
Brobbey will spearhead the attack for Sunderland in this demanding fixture. He shoulders the significant responsibility of acting as the primary focal point up front. His physical hold-up play and ability to bring teammates into the game become even more critical now.
Bertrand Traoré’s AFCON commitments have caused his absence. Brobbey must finish any rare chances that fall his way against a usually organised City defence.
Sunderland’s hopes of scoring largely depend on Brobbey’s capacity to challenge the opposing centre-backs physically. By doing so, he can open up gaps for the advancing attacking midfielders during transition moments.
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