Manchester City will try to move on after their defeat at the hands of Arsenal when they will host Manchester United in a very important match of the Premier league. With City bowing out of the FA Cup they now have virtually no trophy to compete for. Pep’s sole concentration now would be to finish in the top four positions.
On pen and paper, City have a much stronger team when compared to United. The likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and David Silva can brutalise any opposition on their day. There was a lot of hype when City announced the Spaniard as their next manager but in his first season Pep has failed to win any major trophy and if they further don’t manage a spot in the top four it would be a disaster for the English giants.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Manchester City Lineup Against Manchester United
Defence
Claudio Bravo had a tough time adapting to the atmosphere of the Premier League after Pep brought him from Barcelona. But he has been in the City goal for the last few matches and is expected to be between the sticks.
Guardiola would not experiment much with his defensive setup and we can expect more of a same defensive set up in this match. City captain Vincent Kompany will once again make his way to the Etihad Stadium to lead his side.
Nicolas Otamendi has looked pretty shoddy at times but with John Stones carrying a knock, Pep has no other option but to field him.
Gael Clichy has been deployed most of the times on the left side of the defence and is set to have another start.
Looking at the importance of the match Pablo Zabaleta is favourite to feature on the right side of the defence.
Midfield
The only positive from the Arsenal match was probably the performance of Yaya Toure. The towering Ivorian made some valuable interceptions and surging runs for City. He is definitely making a start in the next match.
Fabian Delph looks far more impressive when he remains fit and he should start in the midfield.
Attack
Leroy Sane should be the man to watch for. The teenager has immense quality and is definitely one of the hottest prospects.
Kevin De Bruyne would try to sniff into the opponent third with his silky smooth skills.
Raheem Sterling will start on the right wing. The England international is having a wonderful season so far.
Sergio Aguero went off with a knock but it expected to be fit in time to face United.
