As the Premier League heads into its final weekend before the international break, all eyes are on the predicted Man City line-up vs Brighton, with Pep Guardiola expected to make key changes following a frustrating defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.
Manchester City began the season strongly with a 4-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers but stumbled against Spurs in a 2-0 loss at the Etihad. With only three points from their opening two games, Guardiola’s men will be desperate to bounce back and secure another win against Brighton.
Goalkeeper – Ederson Back in the XI
A major talking point in this predicted line-up revolves around who starts between the posts. James Trafford began the campaign as Guardiola’s first-choice, impressing against Wolves but struggling against Tottenham, where his errors proved costly.
READ ALSO: Guardiola Happy About Another Epic Manchester City vs Real Madrid Clash
Ederson, City’s long-standing No. 1, has yet to feature in a competitive game this season but is expected to return to the starting line-up. His experience, composure and distribution could prove crucial as City look to avoid another slip-up.
Defence – Back Four Likely to Stay Unchanged
Defensively, Guardiola has maintained consistency so far, and the predicted Man City line-up vs Brighton suggests little change. Rico Lewis and Rayan Aït-Nouri are set to occupy the full-back positions, with John Stones and Ruben Dias forming the central partnership.
Aït-Nouri was taken off against Spurs with a minor knock but is understood to be fit to start on Sunday. With Brighton’s dynamic attack, Guardiola will rely on a settled defensive unit to deliver a commanding performance.
Midfield – Bernardo Silva Set for Return
The midfield is where changes are most likely in the predicted Man City line-up vs Brighton. In the defeat to Tottenham, Bernardo Silva was surprisingly benched as new signing Rayan Cherki took the playmaker role. However, with Cherki reportedly sidelined due to a thigh injury, Silva is expected to return to the starting XI.
Nico González has impressed in a defensive midfield role and is tipped to start ahead of Rodri, who is not fully match-fit. Tijjani Reijnders, who looked sharp in the previous two outings, is set to retain his place and provide creative support alongside Silva.
Attack – Foden to Start, Haaland Leads the Line
The attacking trio is expected to see one key change in the predicted Man City line-up vs Brighton. Erling Haaland remains undroppable and will spearhead the attack, but Phil Foden could make his first start of the season, replacing Oscar Bobb on the right wing.
ALSO READ: Manchester City Show Surprise Interest in Talented Chelsea Player
On the left, Jeremy Doku is likely to start ahead of Omar Marmoush. The Egyptian struggled to make an impact against Spurs. Therefore, Doku’s pace and directness will be vital in stretching Brighton’s defence.
Predicted Man City Line-Up vs Brighton (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Ederson
Defenders: Rico Lewis, John Stones, Ruben Dias, Rayan Aït-Nouri
Midfielders: Nico González, Tijjani Reijnders, Bernardo Silva
Forwards: Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku
