Manchester City will face off with West Ham later today at the London Stadium. The world champions will be aiming to make it three wins from three to start the new Premier League season. But a tricky test awaits Pep Guardiola’s side in London. Here is a look at the latest City team news and a look at how Pep Guardiola could line up against the Hammers today.
Latest Manchester City team and injury news.
Speaking before during his pre-game press conference yesterday Pep Guardiola had an update on a trio of Manchester City players and their fitness for today’s game. The City manager was asked about the fitness of Mateo Kovacic, Rodri and Phil Foden during his press conference yesterday. He had mixed news on the status of the trio. Guardiola told the media: “Rodri is much better. (Mateo) Kovacic as well. Phil (Foden) still doesn’t feel good. The rest are OK.”
Based on Pep Guardiola’s comments it is a fair assumption that Phil Foden is in doubt for today’s game. Foden missed last weekend’s win over Ipswich Town due to illness. It appears that Manchester City are playing it safe with Foden after his busy summer for England.
Mateo Kovacic should resume his role in midfield after training this week. The Croatian international picked a hip injury and had to be substituted after 50 minutes during City’s 4-1 win over Ipswich Town. But he appears fit and ready to play against the Hammers.
The return of Rodri to training is great news for the Premier League champions. But given he has only just returned to full training it wouldn’t be a surprise to see City’s midfield general take his place on the bench for today’s game.
Oscar Bobb will once again miss today’s game as he continues his recovery from a fractured leg.
Predicted Manchester City starting eleven.
Ederson- I expect Ederson to start in goal as usual today. Although he hasn’t looked at his best in goal at times during the early stages of this season. He’ll be hoping to pick up his form starting today.
Rico Lewis- Lewis should resume at right-back today. There is no reason for the youngster to be dropped. He will be eager to continue his strong form after being named in the England squad earlier this week.
Ruben Dias- Based on his early season form Dias should start again today. He will have to be at his best based on the attacking weapons that West Ham possess.
Manuel Akanji- Akanji’s form to begin the season has gone under the radar. He should start again and will be looking to continue his impressive start to the season.
Josko Gvardiol- The Croatian international is almost an automatic selection at left-back. If he plays well City usually play well.
Mateo Kovacic- After overcoming a hip injury Kovacic should take his place in midfield against West Ham.
Bernardo Silva- Bernardo has quietly gone about his work to start the 24/25 season. Almost another automatic selection at this stage of the season.
Kevin De Bruyne- The Belgian wizard was at his best against Ipswich Town and will be hoping to continue that form today. De Bruyne is almost a lock to start today’s game.
Savinho- The Brazilian international has made a strong start to life at the world champions. With Oscar Bobb out injured, he should be given another chance to impress at the London Stadium.
Jack Grealish- It is a toss-up between Grealish and Doku for a spot on the left wing against West Ham. I’m giving the nod to Grealish given what he offers in terms of control of possession to Manchester City.
Erling Haaland- After scoring four goals in two games to begin the Premier League season Haaland will be eager to add to his tally at the London Stadium. City’s number 9 looks in ominous form and is almost guaranteed to start today’s match.
