After defensive errors have cost Manchester City of late will the City defence bounce back against Tottenham? Errors have proven costly for the European champions in their previous games. It arguably cost them points in the 4-all draw with Chelsea and was again an issue in the first half against RB Leipzig on Tuesday. City subsequently beat the Bundesliga outfit with a much-improved second-half performance at the Etihad.
Pep Guardiola warned his side following their win over RB Leipzig that the defensive errors need to be rectified. Manuel Akanji and Ruben Dias were the players who made crucial mistakes midweek. Akanji acknowledged his manager’s warning as something that needs to be resolved. Dias is a different case as he appears to be out of form currently. His quality isn’t in question and it would appear only a matter of time before he is back at his best.
Heading into Sunday’s clash with Tottenham a thorn in City’s side in previous games between the sides lies in wait. Son Hueng-Min will pose the main threat for Ange Postecoglu’s side. He’s scored 8 goals in the Premier League so far this season and Pep Guardiola’s side know all about his quality. As per transfermarkt.com, he has scored 9 goals in 17 appearances against City. He could take full advantage of any errors in Sunday’s match.
It may be a case of Pep Guardiola naming a different back four against Spurs. Nathan Ake was brilliant against RB Leipzig when introduced at halftime. His poise and quality may be required against Spurs. If John Stones is available he immediately makes the City defence a more complete unit.
Pep Guardiola will be hoping for his defence to back on track at the Etihad on Sunday. It isn’t a question of the player’s quality it’s more if they return to form at the weekend.
