The Premier League returns to action this week with another set of fixtures as Aston Villa take on Manchester City in a crucial clash at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.
Aston Villa is currently 4th in the Premier League table and have been quite impressive so far this season. The visitors beat Wolverhampton Wanderers comfortably 2-0 last week and will be confident ahead of this game.
Manchester City, on the other hand, are 3rd in the league table and have not been at their best this season. The Citizens held Arsenal to a 0-0 stalemate in their previous game and will need to make amends this week.
Team news
City will face Aston Villa with several key defensive players out of action. Pep Guardiola confirmed before the match that Nathan Ake, Ederson, and Kyle Walker will miss the match due to injury. It’s a blow for the title winners, who need every available player as they look to stay in touch with Arsenal and Liverpool.
Pep Guardiola has brought positive news on the condition of John Stones. The City manager told the media that Stones could feature tonight. With injuries to City’s defensive stock, Stones’ possible availability could be key tonight for tonight’s game and Saturday’s game against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
Pep Guardiola told the media during his pre-match press conference that he needs all these players to be ready to contribute against Aston Villa. The City manager told the media: “The only thing I ask from the players is to be ready, be yourself, and then it doesn’t matter if you perform at your best or less. Jack is dedicated. We need all of them. With injuries and a tight schedule of many games, we need everyone.”
Manchester City starting lineup: Ortega, Lewis, Dias, Akanji, Josko Gvardiol, Rodri, Nunes, Doku, Foden, Alvarez, Haaland.
Aston Villa starting lineup: Martinez; Konsa, Carlos, Torres, Moreno; Tielemans, Luiz; Rogers, Bailey; Diaby, Duran.
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