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.
5. RB - Rico Lewis
Pep Guardiola would be expected to make changes in defence, and Lewis could be one of the beneficiaries. | Getty Images
6. CM - Nico Gonzalez
Seeing as Rodri is still not 100% fit, Guardiola will likely start Gonzalez in the holding midfield role against Sunderland. | Getty Images
7. CM - Tijani Reijnders
Reijnders scored in the Fulham game, and performed his best 90 minutes since the first game of the season. He will expect to keep his place. | Getty Images
8. CM - Bernardo Silva
Silva could be dropped as he could be in need of a rest ahead of the Real Madrid game, but we have him starting against Sunderland. | Getty Images