Manchester City return to Premier League action on Wednesday, 18 days after the champions’ last league game.
The 3-2 win over Newcastle United moved City to within two points of Liverpool, but the Reds’ have since re-established their five-point gap at the top of table. Jurgen Klopp’s side host Chelsea on Wednesday while City welcome Burnley to the Etihad as attention begins to focus on the title run in.
After a quiet January, the Blues face six league matches in the space of 24 days that could prove significant for their hopes of claiming an historic fourth consecutive title. That run begins with Vincent Kompany’s return to the Etihad. The ex-City skipper didn’t enjoy his last trip to the ground, when Burnley were soundly beaten 6-0 in the FA Cup last season.
In fact, the Clarets have been favourable opponents for City, who haven’t conceded in their last eight meetings and have won all of the last 12 encounters. Pep Guardiola has also won 16 of his 17 previous fixtures against Burnley and City’s last home league defeat against the Lancashire side came in 1962.
Guardiola may be tempted to freshen up his side for Wednesday’s game, albeit City shouldn’t feel any fatigue after the winter break. The ex-Barcelona manager might also consider handing Kevin De Bruyne a first start since returning from injury, with the Belgian coming off the bench in the last three matches.
Guardiola has confirmed his star midfielder is ready to start, but it’s not clear whether he’ll be thrown in against Burnley. Erling Haaland is also available after missing the last 10 matches through injury, while Guardiola revealed Manuel Akanji is back too, meaning City don't have any injuries at present.
With that in mind, here’s how City could set up against Burnley…
1. GK: Ederson
Was on the bench in the FA Cup win over Tottenham Hotspur, but should return to the team on Wednesday.
2. RB: Kyle Walker
With all the off-field reports of Walker's private life, the player will be pleased to focus on a game of football.
3. CB: Ruben Dias
Dias will probably retain his place given Akanji and John Stones may not be available to start just yet.
4. CB: Nathan Ake
Scored the winner at Spurs on Friday night and, like Dias, is expected to start in the middle of defence.