Yaya Touré to be benched for Manchester City vs Chelsea - report

Manchester City midfielder Yaya Touré will be dropped to the bench for Saturday’s giant Premier League match against Chelsea, as Ilkay Gündoğan will return to the starting 11 according to the Daily Star and the Daily Express.

The Ivorian won man of the match at Selhurst Park two weeks ago when he scored twice to beat Palace 2-1. However, he had a dismal performance against Burnley last weekend, as he did not contribute much to City’s attack or defense throughout his time on the pitch.

Pep will most likely opt to start Fernandinho along with Gündoğan below a trio of attacking midfielders, who should consist of Kevin de Bruyne, David Silva and Raheem Sterling if fit. But this doesn’t mean Yaya won’t play.

The midfielder has always been a hit-or-miss prototype, and he may serve as a super sub option for Pep in case City needs to mix up the play. Although he usually does not serve as a substitute, Touré’s natural shooting and passing ability can tear holes through a Chelsea defense that has kept seven clean sheets this season.

No matter who starts, City have to bring their A game against the team atop the table. Guardiola’s boys can truly prove their worth with a win on Saturday, so expect to see a wild one at the Etihad.