After being eliminated in what can be called as the most ‘Boring’ semifinal of the Champions league, Manuel Pellegrini’s side will be welcoming Arsene Wenger and Arsenal in one the most decisive fixture of the Premier League this Sunday.
Arsenal in their last premier league fixture were lucky to get away with all three points as Danny Welbeck managed to score the only goal for the gunners. While, Manchester City will be looking to bounce back into the league after their humiliating 4-2 loss against Southampton.
The last time these two sides met, Arsenal clinched the victory with a marginal score line of 2 goals to 1. Looking at the clubs’ previous results, Manchester City have managed to grab 13 points from their last six games; winning 4 of them. Arsenal, on the other hand, have managed 12 points from their last six games; and have won 3 of them.
Here is the predicted lineup for Manchester City, that could face Arsenal this Sunday-
Goalkeeper: Hart-
One of the contenders for the Golden Glove award this season, Joe Hart has been exceptional throughout the season. He has to be on his toes as the defence will be missing their skipper.
Defenders: Sagna; Otamendi; Mangala; Clichy-
As Kolarov and Zabaleta will be missing the games due to their injuries, the ex- Arsenal stars will return to the side in the starting XI. A lot was expected from Otamendi this season, but he has been an average performer and will lead the defence. With Kompany missing the game (most probably), Mangala will partner up with Otamendi at the back. Clichy will retain his position on the left flank to support City’s attack.
Midfielders: Sterling; Fernandinho; Toure; De Bruyne; Nasri-
Sterling hasn’t been able to live up to the expectations of the fans and still has no answers for his £49 million price tag. With Silva out of the action due to injury, he might get his chance to show his firepower in the game. The heart of the Citizens’ will be managed by Fernandinho and Toure Yaya as usual. Nasri might return to face his previous club and might be deployed on the wings. De Bruyne has been brilliant in the entire campaign, and we have seen how City struggled in his absence. He will be working as an attacking midfielder to support Aguero in his runs.
Striker: Aguero-
The Argentine sensation has been a hit in the club, and will surely start against Arsenal. He will be supported by De Bruyne and can cause real problems to Arsenal’s center backs who can be out powered easily by Aguero’s strength and pace.