Predicted Manchester City lineup vs Everton, Danilo benched

Manchester City will seek to maintain their winning start to the Premier League season when they host Everton at the Etihad Stadium. The Citizens gained just a point against their Merseyside counterparts last term, and Pep Guardiola will set his side out with a definite aim to win the game. Cross-city rivals Manchester United are already at the top of the table with six points in two outings, and Pep would no doubt want to keep tabs with the Red Devils in the early stage of the campaign.

Formation: 3-5-2

Pep has tried out the three-at-the-back formation during pre-season with much success. The Citizens won their previous outing versus newcomers Brighton and Hove Albion with relative ease, and the tactics may not change for the Toffees clash.

Lineup:

Ederson looks a certainty between the sticks following his clean sheet at the AmEx Stadium. The back three could also remain the same as it is. City have only four senior centre-backs to choose from and the likes of Nicolas Otamendi, Vincent Kompany and John Stones should make the cut ahead of Eliaquim Mangala.

Kyle Walker impressed in the attack during the 1-0 triumph over Brighton, and he will a certain starter at right wing-back. However, the same cannot be said of Danilo who is more suited to holding his position. Since it’s a home game, Leroy Sane could get the call for the left wing-back spot with his aggressiveness.

Kevin de Bruyne adapted incredibly well to the central role last term, contributing six goals and 18 assists. He is likely to retain his place alongside Fernandinho and David Silva in a midfield three.

Gabriel and Sergio Aguero were used in tandem during the tail-end of the previous campaign, and Pep appears to favour the South American partnership upfront. The pair could be expected to start.

Image – Getty