Predicted Manchester City Lineup To Face Middlesbrough
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City were held for a draw at the Etihad in the Manchester derby on Thursday but they do not have too much time to dwell on it as they are back in action this weekend. After failing to take more than a point from that game against Manchester United, Manchester City will travel to the Riverside stadium to face a Middlesbrough side that looks destined for relegation. City are placed 4th and have a decent chance to qualify for the Champions League. They are favourites to take all 3 points from this game.
Team News
The manager missed the likes of David Silva and John Stones for the derby but the duo is expected to be back in action this weekend. However, goalkeeper Claudio Bravo picked was stretchered off against United and will miss this game. Ilkay Gundogan remains sidelined while Gabriel Jesus should start yet again from the bench.
Probable Manchester City XI:
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Manager: Pep Guardiola
GK – Willy Caballero
With Bravo injured, Caballero, who has been in decent form this season, should start between the sticks for City.
RB – Jesus Navas
Though he isn’t too productive at this position, Navas is a decent option for Manchester City on this relatively easy trip to the Riverside.
CB – Vincent Kompany
Though Stones is expected to be back, Kompany has been magnificent and should start against Middlesbrough.
CB – Nicolas Otamendi
One of the most consistent defenders for City this season, Otamendi should partner Kompany at the back for this tie.
LB – Aleksandar Kolarov
He did no harm to his reputation against United and should keep his place at left-back for this game against Middlesbrough.
CM – Fernandinho
Had a decent game on Thursday but will hope to have a greater effect on the game against Boro in the midfield for his side.
CM – Yaya Toure
Had his moments in the derby but this game against Middlesbrough will suit his style of play and he could be the man to make a difference for the Citizens.
RW – Raheem Sterling
The former Liverpool man has been in superb form and was a constant presence in attack for City against United. He should keep his place in the first team this weekend.
CAM – Kevin de Bruyne
The Belgian has been in excellent form this season and though he was not productive in the derby, he will have a huge responsibility on his shoulder in this game.
LW – Leroy Sane
The exciting youngster has been the danger man for City for some time now and he should keep his place on the left-flank for this tie.
ST – Sergio Aguero
Though Gabriel is back, he is still not fit enough to start games and this should see Guardiola stick with Aguero to lead the attack for his side.