Predicting Man City's Starting XI for Premier League Clash With Wolves on Friday

​Manchester City travel to take on Wolves on Friday in the Premier League hoping to pick up a valuable three points and close the gap on runaway leaders Liverpool.

Pep Guardiola's men impressively came from behind to beat Leicester City in their last game, with Riyad Mahrez and Kevin de Bruyne starring on that occasion. 

Nuno Espirito Santo's men won't be a pushover, however, having claimed a remarkable 2-0 victory in the reverse fixture back in October, with Adama Traore grabbing a late brace. 

With the Sky Blues seeking revenge, here's the lineup Guardiola could select for Friday's clash...


Goalkeeper & Defenders

Ederson

Ederson (GK) - A simple one, really. The Brazilian is essential to the way City play, with his distribution getting his side playing on the front foot. An exceptional talent and he will be keen to pick up his seventh clean sheet of the season on Friday.


Kyle Walker (RB) - Walker has been impressive in recent weeks, constantly providing the width and supporting the attacks. He will be looking to help his side dictate proceedings from the off, but the Englishman faces a tough test against a dangerous Wolves attack. 


Fernandinho (CB)​Fernandinho has been a key figure for the Citizens, having started the last 12 league games at centre-back. However, Riyad Mahrez has ​accidentally revealed that the Brazilian is expected to leave at the end of the season when his contract expires...


Nicolas Otamendi (CB) - Tough-tackling Otamendi is prone to a few mistakes, but he started alongside Fernandinho against Leicester last time out and is expected to keep his place. The Argentinian can also pose a threat from set-pieces.


Benjamin Mendy (LB) - It's fair to say Mendy has struggled with injuries since his arrival. However, when fit, there are few better left-backs around. He is resolute in his defensive work, while he has the ability to open up a defence with a pass or cross. 


Midfielders

FBL-ENG-PR-MAN CITY-LEICESTER

Rodri (CM) - Rodri is expected to come back into the ​City side for Thursday's game. The Spaniard has been assured in his work, constantly sniffing out danger before looking up to play positive and penetrating passes. 


Kevin De Bruyne (CM) - What else can you say about De Bruyne? He is simply outstanding and is a joy to watch. The Belgian already has ten assists to his name this season, and he will be keen to add to this tally as he goes in search of breaking Thierry Henry's record.


Ilkay Gündogan (CM) - Guardiola could look to play Gundagon further forward on Friday, with Rodri behind him in the defensive midfield role. He will be expected to make his driving runs to support the attackers and provide a goal threat, but also support Rodri defensively.  


Forwards

Gabriel Jesus

Riyad Mahrez (RW)​Mahrez was sensational against his former club, scoring his side's equaliser. His trickery and skill make him a nightmare to defend against and he will be keen to put in another impressive display in a bid to cement his place in the side. 


Gabriel Jesus (ST) - He just loves scoring away from home, doesn't he? Guardiola ​has confirmed that Sergio Aguero will not start the game, meaning Jesus will keep his place in the side. He will come into the contest full of confidence having scored at home last time, and will be looking to add to his goal tally. 


Raheem Sterling (LW) ​Sterling has shown the consistency required to be considered one of the world's best and he can consider himself unlucky not to have finished within the Ballon d'Or top ten. A world-class talent.


Source : 90min