After a strong start to the Premier League season, the English League challenges have caught up Pep Guardiola in his first ever stint in England. His Manchester City side are currently in the 5th place in the points table, 13 points off Chelsea at the top (with a game in hand) and they face a tricky test against Slaven Bilic’s West Ham side this week.
The Hammers have found some impressive form this month and are looking to slowly move up the points table and they are surely going to test the visitors on the night at the Olympic stadium. Bilic will know that City can be beaten and will go with his best side for this game. The Manchester City manager will also go for all three points and field his strongest side.
Here is the predicted lineup that Pep Guardiola might play for this game:
Team News:
Pep Guardiola will still be missing the services of star midfielder Ilkay Gundogan for this tie. Youngster Gabriel Jesus, however, is expected to be fit after limping away in the previous game against Crystal Palace. Midfielder Fernandinho is also available for selection after serving his suspensions.
Expected lineup (4-3-3)
Claudio Bravo:
The former Barcelona man has not been consistent this season for the Citizens but he is the first choice for Guardiola and should start this game.
Pablo Zabaleta:
The Argentine was decent as a midfielder in the last few games but with Fernandinho back in the squad, he should be back at the right-back for this tie.
Nicolas Otamendi:
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The most consistent defender for Manchester City this season, Otamendi is expected to be under pressure against an in-form West Ham attack this week.
John Stones:
The English defender has not been at his best in the last few games and his performance on the night can decide the outcome of the game.
Aleksandar Kolarov:
The first choice full-back for Guardiola this season, Kolarov has been decent on the flank and will have to be at his best to give his side all three points from this game.
Fernandinho:
The Brazilian has finally served all his suspensions and Guardiola should trust him with the midfield duties for this trip to London.
Yaya Toure:
The Ivorian has cemented a place in the midfield under the manager this season and will be up against the likes of Mark Noble in the midfield against the Hammers.
David Silva:
The Spanish playmaker is the lynchpin of the attack for Manchester City and is expected to start just in behind Aguero on the night.
Raheem Sterling:
The young winger has blown hot and cold in the last few games and Guardiola will hope that he will have a decent outing in this game.
Kevin de Bruyne:
The Belgian has been exceptional at times on the wing for City and he will hope to put in a similar performance this week against West Ham.
Sergio Aguero:
Arguably the most prolific goal scorer in the Premier League, Aguero will be the biggest threat for West Ham and he will be up against Jose Fonte on the night for Manchester City.