Manchester City welcome Sunderland to the Etihad Stadium looking to build on their thrilling 5-4 victory over Fulham on Tuesday night
Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola insisted Tuesday night was a great spectacle for the neutrals as the Blues ran out 5-4 winners over Fulham at Craven Cottage. While City’s attacking threats pleased the boss, defensively the club has been leaking goals in recent games which is something that needs addressing.
In his press conference, Guardiola was quizzed about the lack of minutes Rayan Ait-Nouri has received since arriving from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer transfer window. He featured in the opening three games of the campaign but has struggled to rediscover his spot in the team after an ankle injury. Instead of criticising the Algerian, Guardiola heaped praise on Nico O’Reilly for his performances since filling in at left-back.
While the manager hinted at the youngster being rested soon, Saturday’s game should see him retain his place as Ait-Nouri awaits his opportunity to shine. Midfielder Rodri remains sidelined so Nico Gonzalez will keep his place in the team.
Tijjani Reijnders finally managed to add to his first goal for the club on debut in the win over Fulham. The midfielder impressed and Erling Haaland told journalists after the game that it will take time for the pair to become accustomed to each other. The duo looked to be on the same page in the win over Fulham and Guardiola will likely keep the pair together as they continue to grow. Phil Foden shall also be in line to keep his place in the squad after an impressive week.
His four goals in two matches rescued City and he looks back to his very best after a difficult campaign in 2024/25. As for who is leading the line, that answer is obvious. Haaland bagged his 100th goal in the Premier League in midweek and the Norwegian should rightfully keep his place spearheading the attack. In truth, Guardiola will more than likely keep the same team for a third game running.
City predicted XI vs Sunderland: Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Reijnders, Gonzalez, Bernardo; Foden, Haaland, Doku
