Manchester City Pep Guardiola’s plans for the game against Manchester United have been dealt a heavy blow. The former Barcelona manager has confirmed that Ruben Dias will be out for at least 4-5 weeks with a hamstring injury. Nathan Ake too will miss out with details on his injury not disclosed.
This is how Man City could lineup against Man United considering the unfortunate turn of events:
Goalkeeper: EDERSON
The ever-present Brazilian will keep the post against Manchester United. He leads the way this season with 15 clean sheets and would love to add to that and extend his lead over Brazilian counterpart, Alisson Becker.
Defenders: WALKER-LAPORTE-STONES-CANCELO
Thankfully, Manchester City have two full fit center backs for this game and would depend on them to keep Cristiano Ronaldo and his attacking partners quiet. John Stones and Aymeric Laporte have rarely played together but could step up this weekend. The ever-present Joao Cancelo would love to pick up form again and produce a brilliant display.
Midfielders: GÜNDOGAN-RODRI-DE BRUYNE
Pep Guardiola’s strongest midfield trio remain fit and can dominate the midfield again. Despite struggling in recent fixtures with the Reds, the brilliance of these three players could come to bear on Sunday. Rodri should keep his place ahead of Fernandinho despite a slightly shaky performance against Everton, that saw him get away with a handball.
Attackers: STERLING-FODEN-SILVA
With Gabriel Jesus yet to pick up form after his injury and Jack Grealish not fully fit, the attacking trio that played against Everton are likely to keep their places. Raheem Sterling has scored a number of vital goals in recent games and is City’s topscorer in the Premier League this season. The fluidity of the trio could worry United’s backline.
Man City predicted XI vs Man United: Ederson; Walker, Laporte, Stones, Cancelo; Gundogan, Rodri, De Bruyne; Sterling, Foden, Silva.
