Manchester City might have lost out on the Premier League title last season but that has encouraged Pep Guardiola to revitalise his expectations for the upcoming season. Pep has been on a spending spree as he has acquired the services of Ederson from Benfica and Bernardo Silva from Monaco. With a host of players expected to leave, we could see a very fresh lineup in the next campaign.
Pep’s brand of football is unique and we have seen the Spaniard emulating his stewardship with immense success during his stint with Barcelona and Bayern Munich. But in England, he didn’t have the start which he would have been hoping for.
Pep had to end the season without any silverware which happened for the first time in his career. However shrugging off the early difficulties, he would be looking for a totally new start with his new signings.
Defence
The arrival of a ball playing keeper who could pass the ball led to the signing of Ederson. He arrived for almost a record fee of £34.7m from Benfica and will take over the position from Claudio Bravo who has been a disaster.
Pep’s marquee signing John Stones is expected to get another chance to show his progress. The England international has been the centre of controversies after his few error-prone performances but should start the new season with renewed efforts.
Nicolas Otamendi will be the partner of Stones in the heart of the defence. The Argentine showed solidity in the centre of the backline and would be hoping to continue his progress.
Aleksandar Kolarov will be in his usual left back position while Fernandinho will be shifting towards the right back position.
Midfield
Ilkay Gundogan will start in the anchor position. Pep opted for a more attacking 4-1-4-1 formation in the last few games with Toure guarding the line before the back four. But with Gundogan becoming fit he would be the preferred choice in the heart of the midfield.
David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne will be in a bit advanced position. Two of the most prolific playmakers of City will have the responsibility to dictate play from the deep.
Attack
Bernardo Silva will be the star attraction in this team. The Portuguese playmaker is expected to start on the right wing where he will have the chance to combine with Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus.
Leroy Sane will be given the opportunity to start on the left flank. He will try to replicate his last season’s performance.
Gabriel Jesus has shown flashes that he could be the ideal successor of Sergio Aguero in this team and a side without him is seemingly impossible.
While we will see a very different line-up by the end of the transfer window, we are basing the following XI having included the confirmed signings only.
