The Sky Blues in the Football Transfer Tavern have enjoyed a good start to the season…
Manchester City sit atop the Premier League but they suffered their first blip of the season at the hands of Tottenham last weekend, as they were defeated 2-0 at White Hart Lane.
They have enjoyed a welcome break from domestic football though with most of the players escaping for international duties.
Everton themselves have enjoyed a good start to the Premier League season, although they are now winless in two after defeat to Bournemouth and a well-fought draw at home to Crystal Palace.
They know that travelling to City and getting a result will be a tall order as City are currently enjoying a 100% record in all competitions at the Etihad.
Pep Guardiola has come in and settled seamlessly in Manchester, but as they hit their first snag last weekend question marks are finally being raised, however slight they are.
The Citizens are still overwhelming favourites for the title and are expected to get over their slight blip, and the punters here at the Football Transfer Tavern think that this XI will the Toffees on Saturday afternoon.
Claudio Bravo
The controversial keeper will keep his spot as the Blues no.1 after Joe Hart’s departure this summer.
Pablo Zabaleta
Struggled massively against Tottenham and a shame to see one of the best right-backs of the past few years have such a torrid time – but due to a lack of options, he will probably keep his place for this game.
Nicolas Otamendi
Grown into the Premier League style of play and settled as City’s centre-back.
A top player.
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Signed for the Blues this summer and has settled in seamlessly.
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Gael Clichy
Kolarov started ahead of Clichy against Spurs but also struggled and scored an own goal – so don’t be surprised to see the Frenchman replace him this weekend.
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Fernandinho been very impressive so far this season and will no doubt keep his place in the City midfield.
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Replaced Fernando after 53 minutes against Spurs but as long as the German is fit, he will start.
Neat and tidy player for the Sky Blues.
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Guardiola could possibly give summer signing Leroy Sane a start but if not, he’ll keep faith with the inconsistent Jesus Navas to exploit Baines’ lack of pace.
David Silva
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He’s been one of City’s best ever players in the history of the club and there’s absolutely no doubting his place in the team.
When he’s fit, he starts. Simple.
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The English winger has been sensational so far this season tearing defences to shreds.
He’s scored goals and created plenty too!
He didn’t play for England during the international break due to a minor injury but he should be fit enough for City this weekend after an extended break.
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Aguero is risking his fitness by featuring for Argentina but if he returns to England even just 70% fit, you would expect him to start against the Toffees.
Aguero is just too valuable to Guardiola.
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