:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52835425/631673732.0.jpg)
As the title race heats up across the Premier League, Manchester City welcome Tottenham Hotspur to the Etihad Stadium, facing a Spurs side currently on a six-game winning streak. City are hoping to recover from a 4-0 loss against Everton, and Pep Guardiola needs to prove he can win the title by beating a Top 4 team on Saturday.
Earlier this season, Tottenham beat City 2-0 at White Hart Lane, and they hope for a similar result away from home on Saturday. Here’s a few players from both sides who could make an impact on this game.
Kyle Walker
After a shaky start to the season, Walker has caught fire recently. The Englishman has five assists for Spurs this season, including one last week against West Bromwich Albion.
The Tottenham right back has been in recent transfer rumors linking him to a move to City, as Pep Guardiola is searching for young, quick fullbacks who can defend and attack. He would be a great fit into the system, but City have to play against him first, and that won't be fun.
Pablo Zabaleta
With Fernandinho still suspended, Pep is expected to start Zabaleta at midfield. While the Argentine is a natural fullback, there is no other viable option to fill Fernandinho’s void in midfield than Zaba.
His role in midfield will be crucial, as a quick Spurs attack can penetrate defenses and midfields at ease. Zabaleta must stop any pressure from reaching City’s vulnerable defense.
Harry Kane
The English striker has been on fire lately, scoring six goals in his last four games. This includes a hat trick against West Brom, and Kane is once again proving his last two seasons were not a fluke.
Kane has transformed into one of the league’s deadliest strikers, scoring 13 goals in 16 appearances this season. He will have to step up again against City to truly show his talent and prove he is a world class striker. Look for his name on the scoresheet.
Gabriel Jesus
Jesus is finally a Man City player after the club sorted his papers and confirmed his eligibility to play in the Premier League. The Brazilian striker is expected to make his club debut off the bench against Spurs.
The former Palmeiras attacker has been hyped as one of football’s most talented teenagers, and his finishing and dribbling is highly praised. Look for Gabriel to reinvigorate the City attack and help the Sky Blues to win three points. What a debut would that be!