Manchester City Aims for Top Spot Against Everton at Etihad

Manchester, England – Manchester City has a chance to climb to the top of the Premier League table when they face Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Currently three points behind league leaders Arsenal, City needs to win by three goals or more to surpass the Gunners on goal difference.

City manager Pep Guardiola is not overly focused on the standings at this early stage of the season. Instead, he aims to maximize his team’s performance as a unit, with star striker Erling Haaland leading the Premier League scoring charts and keeping the team competitive.

Guardiola will face a tough challenge from Everton, who have not won at the Etihad in 15 years. Adding to City’s challenges, midfielder Jack Grealish will miss the match due to being ineligible, as he is on loan from Manchester City.

City’s lineup could feature Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, who is adjusting well to life in the Premier League after transferring from the European champions. Other potential starters include Matheus Nunes and Rúben Dias on defense, with Joško Gvardiol and Nico O'Reilly on the left.

The midfield may see the inclusion of Nico González and Tijjani Reijnders, as Rodri is likely to miss out due to injury. On the attacking front, Bernardo Silva is expected to be a dependable option on the right, while Phil Foden and Jérémy Doku could contribute significantly to the attack alongside Haaland.

Guardiola gave updates on the fitness of his squad, indicating that Rodri is not ready for the match but others are returning from injuries. “Rodri is not ready for tomorrow,” Guardiola said. “They [Marmoush and Aït-Nouri] trained yesterday and are much better.”

For Everton, manager David Moyes must contend with several injuries. Grealish’s absence is a significant blow, but Moyes expressed confidence in his team’s ability to adapt. With the return of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from suspension, Moyes anticipates making necessary adjustments. “We’ll rejig, get ready and go against Man City,” said Moyes.

Everton’s squad may include players like Iliman Ndiaye, who is likely to shift to the left, and Beto, who could replace Thierno Barry up front. Moyes aims to rally his team for what would be seen as an upset victory over the reigning champions.

The match promises to be a pivotal encounter for both teams as they navigate early season form and injuries.