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.
9. LW - Jeremy Doku
Doku was one of the stand-out performers against Fulham, and seeing as he was subbed off after just 61 minutes, he would expect to feature against Sunderland. | Getty Images
10. RW - Phil Foden
Foden has been the star in two games in a row, scoring four goals in his last two matches. He will expect to start in the advanced role again here. | Getty Images
11. ST - Erling Haaland
Haaland is the fastest Premier League player to 100 goals after making just 111 appearances. He scored and provided two assists against Fulham. | AFP via Getty Images