Dias To Return, Grealish Misses Out | Predicted 4-3-3 Manchester City Lineup Vs Southampton | OneFootball

Manchester City are aiming to maintain their stellar lead at the top of the table when they take on Southampton on Saturday. The Sky Blues have been in imperious form in the Premier League, having secured 12 back to back wins in the league. Pep Guardiola’s men will be looking to extend on that record up against the Saints this weekend.

Predicted Manchester City Lineup Vs Southampton

Defence

Nathan Ake and Oleksandr Zinchenko remain doubts for Manchester City heading into this clash, with Zinchenko picking up a knock just before the Chelsea game.

As for the starting eleven, Guardiola’s tendency to rotate the squad week in week out could see John Stones make way for Ruben Dias. The Portuguese international should accompany Aymeric Laporte at the heart of the four-man backline.

However, Guardiola doesn’t have too many options in the wide defensive rules, especially with Zinchenko unlikely to start. It could once again force the Catalan to continue with Joao Cancelo at left-back, whereas Kyle Walker remains a guaranteed starter on the opposite flank.

Ederson Moraes is also set to continue in between the sticks. The Brazilian will be hoping for his third clean sheet in four league matches this weekend.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 26: Manchester City manager Josep Guardiola makes a point to Ruben Dias during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Leicester City at Etihad Stadium on December 26, 2021 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Getty Images)

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Midfield

Manchester City are unlikely to make any changes in the middle of the park despite no substantial injury woes. Indeed, Kevin de Bruyne should continue his role as captain, as he looks to offer the creative essence in the number eight position. He will be accompanied by Bernardo Silva, with Ilkay Gundogan serving as an alternative.

Meanwhile, Rodri remains the favourite to occupy the number six position. The defensive midfielder’s composure in possession, coupled with his game-reading abilities, could go a long way in helping Man City keep another clean sheet.

Attack

We are expecting at least one change in the attack, with Jack Grealish likely to make way for Gabriel Jesus. Riyad Mahrez, though, is unavailable due to international duty with Algeria.

Jesus is set to be accompanied by Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden, who is likely to operate in the false nine role. Either way, Man City’s dynamic, free-flowing positional play should see the three attackers often interchange positions and make life difficult for the Southampton defenders this weekend.