Following a great run of form, the predicted Manchester City team to face Newcastle United could see Gabriel Jesus awarded yet another start up front.
City came agonisingly close to making it to the Champions League final in midweek. They were just minutes away, before a Rodrygo brace for Real Madrid took it to extra time, where City were beaten.
The first leg saw City overcome Real 4-3 in an absolute goal fest, where four separate City men scored, including Gabriel Jesus.
Between the European games, the Citizens put four goals past Leeds United, and four players found their way to the scoresheet yet again in the victory, with Jesus hitting the back of the net yet again.
Before that, City beat Watford 5-1, with Jesus netting an incredible four goals. The game prior, City won 3-0 against mid-table Brighton.
Guardiola has kept his cards close to his chest regarding his selection for the next game. He did admit that he “didn’t speak” to his players, though.
With Jesus in such good form, it would be a surprise if he was not included from the start again this weekend.
Last time out – Real Madrid 3-1 Man City
Ederson started in net. The full-back positions were occupied by Kyle Walker – who appeared to aggravate a previous injury – and Joao Cancelo.
Ruben Dias played alongside Aymeric Laporte at centre-back – he looked to be struggling with cramp, but Guardiola did not mention his fitness.
Kevin De Bruyne played with Rodri and Bernardo Silva in midfield.
In-form Jesus was flanked by goalscorer Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden.
Predicted Man City team against Newcastle
Ederson will likely remain in net. Cancelo could move to right-back amid Walker’s injury troubles, with Zinchenko coming in at left-back.
Dias and Laporte could remain in the centre of the defence, should the latter be fit. If not, Stones may return, though there have been question marks over his own fitness.
De Bruyne and Rodri could remain in midfield. Ilkay Gundogan may join them, giving…