Manchester City take on West Ham today at the Etihad Stadium in a must win game for the world champions. A win for Pep Guardiola’s side would see them claim a fourth consecutive Premier League title. It is another must win final day scenario for the world champions. While title rivals Arsenal are in action against Everton, a win by the world champions would mean that Arsenal can not catch City at the top of the table.
The scenario is simple for Pep Guardiola’s side. Win and create history. It sounds simple, but West Ham will be no pushover at the Etihad Stadium today.
Manchester City team news
City’s number one keeper Ederson will miss today’s game due to a fractured cheekbone. The Brazilian’s season is over after the injury he suffered against Tottenham on Tuesday night. He will also miss next weekend’s FA Cup final against Manchester United with the injury the club confirmed earlier this week.
There was one other injury concern for Manchester City following their midweek win over Tottenham. Kevin De Bruyne had to substituted during the second half of City’s crucial win due to an achilles injury. But he was pictured training with his teammates on Friday afternoon, and he should take his place in the Manchester City squad today.
Predicted City starting eleven
Stefan Ortega: With Ederson out injured, it is a no-brainer that Stefan Ortega will start in goal. He was magnificent when called upon against Tottenham and will be hoping to carry that form into today’s match.
Kyle Walker: It would be a surprise to see Walker not start today’s game. He played well against Tottenham and may have a key role to play today.
Manuel Akanji: The Swiss international has been sensational this season. Akanji should take his spot in the starting lineup today.
Nathan Ake: It would appear to be a choice between Ake or Ruben Dias for today’s match. I’ll give the nod to Ake, who has been Mr. Reliable at the back this season.
Josko Gvardiol: The Croatian international has become one of City’s most influential players of late. There appears to be no doubt that he will start today.
Rodri: Once again, Rodri is an automatic selection. If he dominates the midfield battle, it could set City on the path to glory.
Mateo Kovacic: The Kovacic/Rodri partnership has seen City play their best football of late. They should continue in midfield today.
Bernardo Silva: Another automatic selection for Pep Guardiola when the stakes are at their highest.
Kevin De Bruyne: De Bruyne was substituted due to injury against Spurs. He appears to have overcome that injury and should start again today.
Phil Foden: The Premier League Player of the Season will start today. He will likely have a pivotal role to play as he looks to help his team create history.
Erling Haaland: City’s number 9 bagged a brace against Tottenham in midweek. He will come into today’s game in superb form, and if he’s at his best, he could lead City to the promised land.