Another defeat for Manchester City as they failed to do enough to overpower Liverpool at Anfield. It meansthat the gap has now increased to 11 points and the Premier League champions slip to the fifth position on the points table.
The best thingthat Pep Guardiola’s side can do is make a sounding comeback against Nottingham Forest this week. While the win will not change the situation much, it will certainly help them from having a bigger dent in the ongoing campaign.
4-2-3-1 Manchester City Predicted Lineup Vs Nottingham Forest
Defence
Stefan Ortega committed a silly mistake against Liverpool, which cost a goal. No doubt Ederson is set to start between the sticks. Another devastating performance from Kyle Walker and he should make way for Rico Lewis at the right-back spot.
Ruben Dias‘ return was a big boost but that wasn’t enough for the Citizens to stop Liverpool. Anyway, the Portuguese willonce again form the heart of the defence with Manuel Akanji. Left-back Joško Gvardiol is likely to walk back into the XI at the expense of Nathan Ake.
Ruben Dias
Manchester City’s Portuguese defender #03 Ruben Dias applauds fans on the pitch after the English FA Cup semi-final football match between Manchester City and Chelsea at Wembley Stadium in north west London on April 20, 2024. Manchester City won the game 1-0. (Photo by Ben Stansall / AFP) / NOT FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING USE / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)
Midfield
Ilkay Gundogan will once be forced to play as a holding midfielder even though he isn’t very effective in that role. Bernardo Silva could also be used in the middle to build up well and link with the offensive line.
Attack
Jeremy Doku put some life into City’s attack after his introduction. Heis likely to start on the left flank with Jack Grealish being used in the central areas to provide creativity. Pep Guardiola would also like to deploy Savinho on the right flankto have more attacking options.
Erling Haaland had no impact on the game against the Reds and he must be hungry to find himself on the score sheet.
Rodri (ACL), Oscar Bobb (leg), Mateo Kovacic (unspecified) and John Stones (foot) are sidelined.
4-2-3-1 Manchester City Predicted Lineup Vs Nottingham Forest