Ivan Toney is convinced that a player from Manchester City possesses the highest football intelligence in the Premier League.
Manchester City has kicked off 2024 with remarkable form, only being halted by Liverpool and Chelsea in the new year. Under Pep Guardiola’s guidance, the team remains undefeated in 22 games, raising the possibility of securing back-to-back treble wins.
However, City faces challenging opponents ahead, such as Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals and Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final.
Despite their impressive streak, City trails behind Arsenal and Liverpool by a single point in the title race, leaving the outcome of their trophy haul uncertain for the season.
To achieve success, City relies on every player reaching their peak performance, including Kevin De Bruyne, who Ivan Toney regards as the Premier League’s most astute player.
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Pep Guardiola to make four changes, £54m player to start… Man City predicted line-up vs Arsenal
Manchester City’s Anticipated Starting XI vs Arsenal
Injury Updates and Tactical Adjustments
Ahead of the clash against Arsenal, Guardiola faces injury concerns and tactical decisions.
Defensive Adjustments
- Injuries: Guardiola confirmed John Stones and Kyle Walker’s absence due to injuries. However, Ederson’s recovery is promising.
- Possible Adjustments: Manuel Akanji might replace the injured Kyle Walker at right-back, with Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake likely retaining their positions.
Midfield Dynamics
- Midfield Stability: Rodri is expected to anchor the midfield, while Bernardo Silva’s experience could see him start alongside Kevin De Bruyne, who missed the last match due to injury.
Attacking Configurations
- Flank Dynamics: Phil Foden could shift to the right flank, possibly with Bernardo Silva moving into midfield.
- Forward Line: Erling Haaland is anticipated to lead the line, aiming to capitalize on opportunities against Arsenal’s defense.
Possible Inclusion of Jack Grealish
- Fitness Assessment: Guardiola noted Jack Grealish’s positive training, hinting at his potential inclusion.
- Impactful Presence: Grealish’s experience in big games could see him replace Doku on the left wing.
Predicted Lineup: Ederson, Akanji, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol, Rodri, Bernardo, De Bruyne, Foden, Haaland, Grealish
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‘Dream’… 21-year-old Man City gem now says he would love to work with Pep, he could replace Walker one day
The 21-year-old, currently on loan at Girona, has consistently been seen as a promising talent, and truth be told, he has proven himself in Spain.
Yet, the lingering question has always been whether Couto could ultimately excel at the Etihad Stadium.
Pedro Porro, another skilled right-back signed by Girona in 2017 before his transfer to City in 2019, found himself loaned out to Real Valladolid and Sporting CP before being sold to the latter in 2022.
Despite Porro’s evident talent, showcased in Portugal and later for Tottenham Hotspur, he fell short of meeting the standards for the Sky Blues.
Yan Couto expresses a “dream” to play under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. However, the Brazilian’s situation may differ from that of the Spurs defender, as a report in late January suggested he is seen as the long-term successor to Kyle Walker at City.
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‘Outrageously brilliant’… Gary Lineker left wowed by £225,000-a-week Man City player against Copenhagen
Gary Lineker praises the “exceptionally brilliant” Phil Foden following Manchester City’s victory over Copenhagen. Despite earning £225,000 per week (according to Sport Rac), Foden’s impact extended beyond his goal in the 92nd minute when he converted Kevin De Bruyne’s cut-back.
While acknowledging the team’s solid, if unspectacular, performance against Copenhagen, Lineker specifically commends Foden for his outstanding contribution. Rio Ferdinand also highlights Foden as Manchester City’s standout player throughout the season, emphasizing his importance to the team.
Lineker describes Foden as “outrageously brilliant,” a sentiment echoed by Ferdinand, who notes Foden’s consistent excellence on the field. Foden’s versatility is highlighted, with his adeptness in both traditional right-wing and central positions causing problems for Copenhagen. His technical prowess, intelligent passing, and quick thinking make him a constant threat, earning him accolades from Lineker for being a joy to watch.
