Sports Mole takes an in-depth look at how Manchester City could line up for Saturday’s Premier League clash with West Ham United.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is set to make a late call on whether to select Rodri and Phil Foden in the matchday squad for Saturday’s Premier League trip to West Ham United.
Rodri, who was given an extended summer break following his involvement with Spain at Euro 2024, is yet to feature for the Citizens this season, but he has returned to training this week and could be ready to make his first appearance against the Hammers.
Foden, meanwhile, missed last weekend’s 4-1 win over Ipswich Town through illness, but he is expected to recover in time to play on Saturday, and the same can be said for Mateo Kovacic, who was taken off with a knock in the early stages of the second half against the Tractor Boys.
Kyle Walker is in contention to make his first start of the season, although Rico Lewis has impressed at right-back in his absence, while John Stones and Nathan Ake will hope to force their way into the back four at the expense of either Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias or Josko Gvardiol.
If Kovacic is fit to start, then he should continue in centre-midfield and Guardiola may consider partnering the Croatian with new signing Ilkay Gundogan, who made his second debut for the club as a substitute against Ipswich.
Savinho – another summer signing – and Jeremy Doku could retain their places on the flanks if Guardiola opts against handing Jack Grealish a start, while Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne could both provide support from central areas for striker Erling Haaland, who has already scored four goals in two league games this season, including a hat-trick against Ipswich.
Manchester City possible starting lineup: Ederson; Lewis, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Kovacic, Bernardo; Savinho, De Bruyne, Doku; Haaland
> Click here to see how West Ham United could line up for this contest
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