Pep Guardiola will be somewhat pleased after his side managed to beat Fulham at Craven Cottage during the week. It was an emphatic attacking performance, but City did almost let a 5-1 lead slip by, conceding three more goals to make it 5-4.
It leaves them five points behind league leaders Arsenal, and looking to close the gap some more, as they face a tough Sunderland side at the weekend. The Black Cats managed to draw with Liverpool during the week and continue to impress under Regis Le Bris, as they sit sixth in the table after 14 games.
Guardiola will likely make some defensive changes heading into the game, as he won’t want a repeat of their showing against Fulham, conceding three goals in the second half. If they can keep up their attacking prowess, especially 100-club member Erling Haaland, then City should be on course for another three points.
1. GK - Gianluigi Donnarumma
Donnarumma keeps his position despite the fact that he conceded four against Fulham during the week. | Getty Images
2. LB - Rayan Ait-Nouri
Ait-Nouri could start in order to allow Nico O'Reilly a rest before the Real Madrid game in midweek. | Getty Images
3. CB - John Stones
Stones comes in to add more experience into what has been a very leaky Man City defence over the past few weeks. | Getty Images
4. CB - Ruben Dias
Dias would expect to keep his place in the starting XI, but it could be in jeopardy after a poor display against Fulham. | Getty Images