Haaland and Foden Set to Dazzle as Man City Unleash Star Power Against Sunderland
Manchester City will meet Sunderland for the first time in nearly nine years as the Black Cats make their way to the Etihad Stadium this Saturday afternoon.
The clubs last clashed during Pep Guardiola's inaugural Premier League campaign, where the Spanish manager defeated the Wearsiders in his opening competitive match and secured another victory at the Stadium of Light later that season. Significant changes have occurred since that time, though John Stones continues to anchor Man City's backline.
This current Sunderland squad is anticipated to provide much stronger opposition compared to David Moyes' struggling team, with the recently promoted club presently positioned sixth after earning points against Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea this season. However, City's tremendous offensive capabilities should see them overcome their opponents despite the challenge.
Guardiola faces multiple team selection challenges following an intense week featuring 3–2 and 5–4 victories against Leeds United and Fulham respectively, with some changes expected for Sunderland's arrival.
Here's how Man City might set up at the Etihad Stadium.
Man City Predicted Lineup vs. Sunderland (4-1-4-1)
GK: Gianluigi Donnarumma—Despite his imposing stature, Donnarumma has consistently struggled with challenging aerial deliveries. This weakness has been highlighted in recent matches and represents an area Sunderland should target.
RB: Matheus Nunes—Nunes has delivered underwhelming displays in recent outings as City's requirement for a natural right-back becomes increasingly apparent. Nevertheless, Guardiola appears to maintain confidence in the Portuguese player, who looks set to feature again.
CB: Rúben Dias—Not even Dias' calmness and guidance could prevent Tuesday's Fulham encounter from becoming chaotic. He formed part of a shaky defensive unit that nearly threw away a four-goal advantage.
CB: Joško Gvardiol—Gvardiol was equally powerless to stop Fulham's incredible fightback and will face examination from Wilson Isidor and/or Brian Brobbey, both possessing the pace and strength to trouble the Croatian defender.
LB: Rayan Aït-Nouri—Guardiola suggested a break for young Nico O'Reilly in his pre-match media session, potentially opening the door for summer signing Rayan Aït-Nouri. The Algerian's early season setback has seen his standing diminish.
DM: Nico González—The loss of Rodri, and somewhat Mateo Kovačić, remains evident in midfield as City's defensive structure becomes vulnerable. Nico simply cannot match his Ballon d'Or-winning teammate's quality.
RM: Rayan Cherki—Bernardo Silva's difficulties against Fulham might prompt a formation adjustment. Cherki deserves a starting opportunity given his consistent impact as a substitute and could feature on City's right flank.
CM: Tijjani Reijnders—Broke his extended scoring drought in midweek with an elegant chip that extended City's first-half advantage. Guardiola requires greater offensive contribution from the smooth Dutch midfielder.
CM: Phil Foden—Foden has regained his rhythm with consecutive two-goal performances as he attempts to match his 2023–24 standards. The England star, whether deployed wide or through the middle, becomes virtually unplayable when performing at peak level.
LM: Jérémy Doku—Following a surprisingly quiet display versus Leeds, Doku bounced back impressively midweek. He contributed to two of City's five strikes while creating numerous problems for Fulham's right-backs Kenny Tete and Timothy Castagne.
ST: Erling Haaland—After three consecutive goalless games, Haaland returned to scoring form at Craven Cottage while making history. A powerful strike opened the scoring and he also contributed two assists. He will relish the opportunity to face a team he's never encountered before.
