Wolverhampton Wanderers will face their toughest challenge since promotion to the top flight as they’ll host Premier League leaders Manchester City in the early Saturday afternoon fixture.
The Wolves suffered a 2:0 defeat at the hands of Leicester City last weekend and thus, focus will be on getting back on track as they aim to make an impression against the best team so far this season.
Having said that, things are certainly going to be difficult against Manchester City, who registered a thumping 6:1 win over Huddersfield Town. The defending champions are in scintillating form even at this early stage of the season and it remains to be seen what measures Wolves coach Nuno Espirito Santo takes in order to stop the mighty Sky Blues this weekend.
Wolves – Team News
Matt Doherty was the victim of a rash tackle from Jamie Vardy last week which resulted in a red card for the Leicester City striker. Thus, he is unlikely to feature in this weekend’s encounter against Manchester City. Wolves could also miss the services of Ivan Cavaleiro as well.
Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed last week that Wolves doesn’t have any major injury concerns at the moment. Adama Traore and Leander Dendoncker could be available for this game as well.
Dendoncker arrived at the club late following the extended vacation for the 2018 FIFA World Cup but is an option after having trained with the team for a couple of weeks now.
Wolves – Predicted lineup
Defence
Rui Patricio had a tough game against Leicester, having made only one save during entire game. But, the Portuguese international will be keen on redeeming himself with a strong performance against Manchester City.
Ryan Bennett, Conor Coady and Willy Boly will complete Wolves’ three-man backline. The trio will be in for a busy afternoon judging by Manchester City’s recent performances.
Midfield
New signing Adama Traore made his Wolves debut as a substitute against Leicester last week. But, he will hope to get a start in the wake of the expected absence of Matt Doherty in the right-midfield position. Jonny Castro will take care of things on the opposite flank.
At the base of Wolves’ 3-4-1-2, the onus will be on the duo of Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho to test their opposition by using their superior technical qualities.
Neves, in particular, has impressed during a short spell with the newly promoted club, attracting the interest of Manchester City in the process. Thus, he will be keen on impressing one of his potential suitors in the nigh future.
Further up front, Diogo Jota will be deployed as the lone number ten instead of his natural wide position.
Attack
Espirito Santo could make a slight alteration to the front line. Raul Jimenez could be partnered with Leo Bonatini in a two-man forward line. Bonatini has done well off the bench in recent games which could potentially earn him a place in the starting lineup this weekend.
