4-2-3-1: How Man City could line up in Premier League clash vs Forest | OneFootball

Manchester City return to Premier League action with a tricky trip to West Bridgford, where they’ll take on top-four rivals Nottingham Forest at City Ground.

Only one point separates the two sides ahead of Saturday’s mouth-watering showdown as the race for top four heats up.

Pep Guardiola’s side head into the game on the back of a 3-1 win against Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup and will be keen to extend their winning run to three games.

How Man City could line up

City’s injury woes appear to have let up in recent weeks, but they’d still visit City Ground without Nathan Ake, Rodri, Manuel Akanji, John Stones, and Oscar Bobb.

Nevertheless, Guardiola is expected to freshen up his side once again after making 11 changes to the team for the win against Plymouth.

Ederson will replace Stefan Ortega between the sticks. Rico Lewis could be the only one who retains his spot from the defensive line-up that faced Plymouth.

The English talent will likely be joined by Abdukodir Khusanov, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol in the backline.

Ilkay Gundogan anchored the midfield against Plymouth, but he may not have the legs to handle a dogged Forest team.

He could make way for Mateo Kovacic and January addition Nico Gonzalez, who is still finding his feet in the Premier League.

Kevin De Bruyne produced an exceptional performance to help City come from behind to beat Plymouth, leading the way with a goal and an assist.

The Belgian has notched four goals and seven assists this season but could start on the bench against Forest in favour of Omar Marmoush.

The Egyptian forward also gets the nod ahead of Phil Foden and should be flanked by Jeremy Doku and Savinho.

There are no prizes for guessing who leads the line, with Erling Braut Haaland determined to win the Premier League Golden Boot for the third year running.

The Norwegian has netted 20 league goals thus far – 13 have either put City one goal ahead (nine) or drawn them level (four) in a match.