Manchester City dropped points against Wolves last weekend and will face an equally tough challenge this weekend when they take on Newcastle United. The Magpies frustrated Chelsea until a dodgy penalty call helped the Blues break the deadlock and score a late winner.
Manchester City – Team News
The most notable absentee for City is Kevin de Bruyne whose knee injury will probably keep him out of first-team action for a couple of months.
Danilo and goalkeeper Claudio Bravo are recovering from their respective injuries too but City’s enviable squad depth means they have enough numbers at the back.
Predicted Manchester City Lineup (4-3-3)
Defence
Ederson will start between the sticks and City’s goalkeeping department has been a bit shaken ever since Bravo’s Achilles tendon troubles, but the Brazilian should keep them afloat.
Kyle Walker and Benjamin Mendy will play as the two fullbacks. Both of them provide exquisite service to their forwards and Mendy’s impact so far this season has sort of taken the pressure of whoever has played in the left wing role. The Frenchman delivered nine crosses in the game against Wolves.
Vincent Kompany had a rather unconvincing outing and Nicolas Otamendi might replace him at the heart of the defence. The Argentine could be partnered with Aymeric Laporte who scored the equaliser against Wolves last weekend.
Midfield
Fernandinho will start as the defensive midfielder and he’ll have to deal with Newcastle’s threat on the break and mop up when they clear the ball.
The Brazilian will be supported by David Silva and Ilkay Gundogan on either side. Gundogan will probably have a more defensive role while Silva will try to pick the final pass in the attacking half as Newcastle are expected to play a low-block like they did against Chelsea last weekend.
Attack
Sergio Aguero’s fine movement and brilliant finishing will be crucial if City are to dominate their opposition. The Argentine has started the season quite well and has a good record against Newcastle.
Bernardo Silva and Raheem Sterling will keep switching flanks by cutting in from the wings and using their pace and creativity. Sterling completed four dribbles in the previous game, whilst Aguero delivered three key passes, so the Newcastle defence will be in for a tough time.
Silva had a rather poor game, but he might be backed to start ahead of Leroy Sane this time around. The Portuguese will have to buckle up or lose his place to the German international.
