Tottenham Hotspur kickstart their 2021/22 campaign on Sunday as they take on defending champions Manchester City. It is a difficult start to the season for the north London giants, who are hoping to usher in a new era under the leadership of Nuno Espirito Santo and Fabio Paratici. A positive result against the Citizens could go a long way in giving them the confidence they need in order to do so.
Predicted Tottenham Hotspur Lineup Vs Manchester City
Defence
Cristian Romero has been Tottenham‘s marquee signing this summer, with the defender arriving from Atalanta for a fortune. However, his participation in this opening fixture remains a doubt, with the Argentine struggling with a minor knee problem.
Nuno is also more likely to opt for a four-man backline as opposed to his tried and tested wingback system. But the Portuguese tactician may still prefer flexibility, which is why Japhet Tanganga is a favourite at right-back, whereas Sergio Reguilon is a guaranteed presence on the opposite flank.
In central defence, Nuno may opt for the much-maligned figure of Eric Dier, alongside Davinson Sanchez. The Englishman is currently the most experienced defender for Spurs after the summer exit of Toby Alderweireld. Hence, his leadership will be crucial for the team, at least until Romero gets back to full fitness.
Hugo Lloris, meanwhile, is an undisputed choice in between the sticks. The Frenchman is bracing himself for what could be his last season at the club.
Midfield
Tottenham Hotspur have a wealth of options in central midfield. But very few of them provide the consistency and reliability of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. He remains a vital part of the team’s second line of press.
However, who partners the Dane remains a mystery. Giovani Lo Celso, Harry Winks and Tanguy Ndombele are all available options, but the coach might go for Oliver Skipp. The youngster appeared for Spurs in the pre-season and had played a starring role for Norwich City last season. He could thus get a brilliant opportunity to impress on Saturday.
Attack
And finally, in the attacking department, Tottenham will have to make do without Harry Kane and new signing Bryan Gil. Both are lacking match fitness, which means Son Heung-Min could spearhead the Spurs forward line.
It should pave the way for Steven Bergwijn and Lucas Moura to start in the wider attacking roles, as they look to team up with Dele Alli to form the creative trifecta for the Lilywhites.
