Manchester City return to Premier League action on Sunday when the champions host Tottenham Hotspur.
Pep Guardiola will hope it’s a more comfortable afternoon this weekend, than the one his side experienced in midweek, with City coming from two goals down to grab a 3-2 victory against RB Leipzig.
It’s a result that ensures the Blues will finish top of Group G in the Champions League and be seeded for the round of 16. But in the league, it’s Arsenal, not City, who occupy top spot.
The 2-2 draw against Liverpool last week opened the opportunity for the Gunners to move into first place, and they currently are one point ahead of City, although that could be extended to four on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Guardiola confirmed on Friday that Mateo Kovacic is back in training ahead of the Tottenham game, but it’s unlikely the ex-Chelsea midfielder will be available to feature this weekend. John Stones has also stepped up his recovery from a hamstring injury, meaning Matheus Nunes and Kevin De Bruyne may be the only absentees for City.
Guardiola dropped Nathan Ake, Julian Alvarez and Jeremy Doku to the bench for the Leipzig game, and the trio could be handed starting spots for the visit of Spurs, while Ederson is expected to come back into the team. Ruben Dias had a night to forget for City on Tuesday and was replaced at half-time - but he’s still expected to be selected this weekend.
With all that in mind, here’s how City could line up against Spurs…
1. GK: Ederson
One of four changes and the City goalkeeper hasn't kept a clean sheet in any of the last eight appearances against Tottenham.
2. Kyle Walker
Guardiola said on Friday that the added responsibility of being City captain suits Walker, who faces his former club on Sunday.
3. CB: Ruben Dias
Was lucky not be sent off on Tuesday and had to be replaced at half-time, but Dias is expected to return to the line-up this weekend.
4. CB: Manuel Akanji
Was also far from his best against Leipzig, but will probably operate as hybrid defender-midfielder on Sunday.