Manchester City’s recent form has been far from convincing, but they should get their Premier League season back on track with a comfortable win over a struggling Southampton side this weekend. Despite dropping points to Arsenal and Newcastle United, Pep Guardiola’s men eventually prevailed in a tight contest against Fulham before eking out a late 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in their most recent fixture.
The reigning champions have been dealt a blow by injuries, with key midfielders Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne currently sidelined. However, even with these absentees, City should be able to capitalize on Sunday’s clash between Arsenal and Liverpool to consolidate their position at the top of the table.
With Ederson back between the sticks, City’s defense may finally be able to shut out a team that has struggled to score goals, particularly away from home. Ruben Dias, who sat out the win over Sparta Prague in midweek, is likely to partner John Stones in central defense, while Josko Gvardiol provides width from left back and Mateo Kovacic and Ilkay Gundogan offer a solid midfield partnership.
Phil Foden, who has finally begun to rediscover his best form, will provide an attacking spark from the left wing, with support coming from Bernardo Silva, who continues to punditarilya offer a reliable midfield presence. Up top, Erling Haaland will be looking to end a goalless Premier League run that seems to stretch back an eternity.
For all City’s problems, a win over Southampton should be a formality, especially with the visitors’ own struggles in front of goal. As the champions look to make amends for their recent lack of consistency, they should be able to take advantage of their opponents’ frailties and return to winning ways at the Etihad Stadium.
