How Our Writers Think Manchester City Should Line Up Against Fulham
Manchester City face Fulham at the Etihad Stadium today, aiming to get back to winning ways in the Premier League. After two consecutive league draws—against Arsenal (2-2) and Newcastle United (1-1)—Pep Guardiola’s men are eager to return to form. Despite recent victories in other competitions, including a 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Watford and a dominant 4-0 Champions League triumph against Slovan Bratislava, the pressure is on in the league, where Liverpool has overtaken them at the top of the table.
City’s opponent, Fulham, is in solid form, having remained unbeaten since their opening-day loss. A victory for Fulham today would bring them level with City in the standings, making this an even more crucial match for Guardiola’s team.
Joe Bray’s Picks
Bray suggests Guardiola will bring back key players who were rested midweek, such as Bernardo Silva, Jack Grealish, and Mateo Kovacic. Phil Foden, who has been in need of more minutes, should retain his place, while Rico Lewis’ recent performance justifies keeping him in midfield. This, in turn, frees up Kyle Walker to return to full-back, partnering with Gvardiol, Dias, and Akanji, who have all been in excellent form. Of course, Erling Haaland will lead the line, while Bray leans toward starting Grealish and either Foden or Bernardo on the wings, offering flexibility and rotation.
Sean McCormick’s Picks
McCormick believes Guardiola will rotate the squad slightly, especially after the tough draw against Newcastle. He anticipates the return of Ederson, Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, Mateo Kovacic, Bernardo Silva, and Jack Grealish, all of whom were either rested or used sparingly midweek. Foden, who showed his quality against Slovan Bratislava, deserves a spot in the starting XI, and McCormick backs his inclusion as a springboard for the Englishman to rediscover his form ahead of international duty. McCormick also suggests moving Ilkay Gundogan to a deeper midfield role alongside Kovacic, giving City a balanced core.
The Pressure is On
With Liverpool currently occupying the top spot, City is determined to keep pace. Guardiola has key selection decisions to make, balancing fitness with the need for a win. Fulham, unbeaten since the first match of the season, won’t be an easy challenge, and City will need their top players firing on all cylinders to secure three points.
