Ake Doku and Nico set to make a comeback in pivotal Everton clash
Manchester City faces a crucial Premier League match against Everton this Saturday, featuring key player returns. Nathan Ake and Nico O’Reilly are set to reintegrate into the starting lineup, signaling a strategic shift under manager Pep Guardiola.
Starting Lineups
City has made three significant changes for the match from the previous fixture, which concluded with a 1-0 victory against Brentford. Josko Gvardiol and Oscar Bobb will start on the bench, with Rodri absent due to fitness concerns. In contrast, both Omar Marmoush and Rayan Cherki are back after prolonged injuries and have been included on the bench.
Manchester City XI
- Donnarumma
- Nunes
- Dias (C)
- Ake
- O’Reilly
- Nico
- Reijnders
- Savinho
- Foden
- Doku
- Haaland
Everton XI
- Pickford
- O’Brien
- Tarkowski (C)
- Keane
- Mykolenko
- Gana
- Garner
- Alcaraz
- Dewsbury-Hall
- Ndiaye
- Beto
Key Tactical Insights
Gianluigi Donnarumma will guard the goal, supported by a defensive line including Ake and Nico O’Reilly. O’Reilly is positioned to play as a holding midfielder alongside Tijjani Reijnders and Phil Foden in the midfield area. Erling Haaland remains the focal point of City’s attack, complemented by Doku and Savinho on the wings. However, Pep Guardiola is known for his tactical flexibility, which may lead to changes throughout the match.
Erling Haaland’s Impressive Form
Erling Haaland is in exceptional form, having scored in his last ten competitive matches. His recent hat-trick for Norway in a World Cup qualifier boosted his season tally to 21 goals in just 12 games. The striker, voted Premier League Player of the Month for September, is set to extend his scoring streak.
Recent Records Against Everton
Manchester City seeks to maintain their dominance over Everton, boasting an unbeaten streak of 16 matches in the Premier League against the Toffees. This includes 13 victories and three draws since their last defeat in January 2017.
Statistical Highlights
- Everton has not won in their last 14 away games against City (D6 L8).
- Under David Moyes, Everton has yet to win an away match against a side that finished in the top three in the previous season.
- City averages 2.04 points per game this season, leading the league.
- Everton has improved, winning 6 of their last 10 matches.
- City has won seven of their last eight home games, with one loss against Tottenham.
As both teams gear up for this pivotal clash, anticipation is high for how Ake Doku and Nico O’Reilly will impact the game. With high stakes for both sides, fans can expect a thrilling encounter.
