Manchester City vs Chelsea : Covid-hit City take on the mighty Blues at the Etihad Stadium

League leaders Manchester City are all set to host Chelsea at the Etihad on Saturday. This home assignment will again be a massive test for the defending champions as a win against the Blues will establish a healthy 13-point lead at the top.

Although with several first-team players ruled out with Covid-19, it will be a tough ask for City to bag three points. Their opponents, Chelsea, have been no slouch this term as they have displayed some great potential in the title race and hence find themselves sitting second in the league table with 43 points.

Ahead of the match, manager Pep Guardiola addressed the media and spoke about his thoughts on the game. The Spaniard talked about Tuchel and was spotted showering praises on the German tactician. His words were :

"So creative. One of the few managers I learn constantly from, to become a better manager myself. Excellent in all departments. I enjoy since he was in Mainz and Dortmund, always I enjoy watching his teams and the way he’s playing and the approach. He makes world football better. When you find a manager who always wants to be positive in the way they play, it’s goodSource : MEN"

Manchester City’s best possible lineup against Chelsea

At home, Ederson will return as the no.1 choice between the sticks. Aymeric Laporte and Ruben Dias are set to be slotted as the main centre-backs. Defender John Stones, too, is in contention for a place at the backline.

In the defensive flanks, Joao Cancelo will be accommodated in the left-back position. Kyle Walker will be placed in his usual right-back spot.

In the centre of the park, Rodri will walk in as the defensive midfielder and is expected to play a key role in Guardiola’s midfield. The Spaniard is likely to be provided support in the form of two central midfielders-Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva.

On the frontline, Raheem Sterling will feature as the left-winger and will be looking to fire all cylinders against the Blues. Gabriel Jesus will also be one of the main attackers in this City lineup and therefore will be placed as the right-winger. Phil Foden is due to return on Saturday after missing out on the Swindon trip and can possibly find himself taking over the no.9 spot.