Combined Best XI: Sunderland vs. Manchester City

By Larry Henry | Mar 3, 2017

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 13: Manchester City defender John Stones (r) challenges Jermain Defoe in action during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Sunderland at Etihad Stadium on August 13, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /

8 of 11

HUDDERSFIELD, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 18: Fernandinho of Manchester City in action during the the Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round match between Huddersfield Town and Manchester City at John Smith’s Stadium on February 18, 2017 in Huddersfield, England. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) /

Second Center Midfielder – Fernandinho

Despite a hot temper at times, Fernandinho is needed for this team to be successful. His defensive prowess allows Pep to add another player in-front of the back-line. He is able to win balls for the team whether it’s with a tackle or during an aerial. Despite David Silva‘s presence in the midfield offensively, I feel defensively Manchester City would love to have the Brazilian available for each match.