Burton Albion play hosts to Manchester City on Wednesday night. After Pep’s boys in blue managed a record breaking win over a humbled Nigel Clough side earlier this month, a number of opportunities may arise for a risk free City side.
Although, as we often see, battling on four fronts can , at times, be more of a hindrance than a blessing, City have an opportunity to progress to the Carabao Cup Final whilst resting some of their house hold names. Make no mistake, the Sky Blues will be looking to add to their growing list of silverware by ultimately lifting the Carabao Cup trophy. However, Wednesday Nights match presents a great platform for players seeking valuable match fitness & youngsters desperate for an opportunity to stake their claim to become a part of the first team picture.
First, we look at the defensive shape which will most likely be used in the semi-final second leg. A more inexperienced backline will likely see Guardiola stick to a more traditional back for, tacking a step back from the typical inverted wing backs that Manchurians have become so accustomed to over Peps tenure. It is likely that Zinchenko will slot into in the left back position in order to gain some valuable minutes leading into the back end of the season. The Ukrainian international has recently announced his commitment to the club & seems willing to fight for his place in the side. An invaluable versatile trait has seen Zinchenko adapt to a number of Guardiola’s demands over the last two seasons. Joining him in the fullback positions is a chance for the first team to call upon Luke Bolton. Bolton proved on Pre-Season tour this year that he has all the makings of a Premier League player if he was to achieve his potential. Injury having played its part this season for Bolton, it may be a nice reward for him to be brought into the squad and act as a reminder that Pep is still keeping an eye on his development whilst he waits in the wings.
Centre Halves for the evening may be an exact replica of those who turned out last time the two teams met. Nicolas Otamendi will likely partner Eric Garcia at the back for this fixture. The ever present Argentine acted as a perfect role model for the inexperienced defender to scuff out any chances which came Burtons way last time out. Muric, will once again relieve Ederson of the gloves for the night with the Brazilian likely to remain on the bench.
A midfield three, is an opportunity for City to experiment. It is likely that journeyman, Fabian Delph will anchor the midfield. The Stockport Iniesta, Phil Foden, is likely to earn his start once again in this fixture as he proves to be one of the first names drafted in for cup matches. Having represented City in all four competitions this season and even adding his first goals to his City account this season, he is proving to be the shinning light of an ever promising City Academy. There are no mistakes about it, those younger players in the academy will be keeping a very close eye on how Foden progresses. With Sancho & Diaz leaving the club, the Under 17-World Cup winner is fast becoming a Homegrown hero. The final position of the midfield three is anyone’s call. However, it may be a good opportunity to see Kevin De Bruyne receive the first 45 minutes as he looks to build on his match fitness.
A rotating forward line is likely to be in-line for the Citizens. Mahrez is likely to take up one of the wider positions. Mahrez has been in good form for City since his arrival and may well be a good opportunity for the tricky winger to add to his seasons tally. After his barnstorming performance vs. Burton in the first leg, it may be wise to allow him a rest for more important games. Therefore, there is an opportunity for City to utilize the recent form of Hot Prospects, Taylor Richards & Felix Nmecha. Both of these homegrown talents are somewhat unknown talents which have performed well for the EDS and Academy sides.
Although there are some bold claims in this piece there too are some exciting opportunities arising for youngsters at City. Many of the above mentioned youngsters will be aching for an opportunity.
Jarred Hancock
(@jarred_hancock)
Football - An Aussies Yarn' on the World Game 