Three Man City players who have picked themselves vs Aston Villa after Villarreal masterclass
Pep Guardiola has been handed several headaches ahead of Man City’s clash with Aston Villa after his team’s Champions League exploits.
Jeremy Doku was slammed by fans on Tuesday, 21 October, despite causing problems down the left flank with his pace and trickery, with many wanting perfection in Villarreal.
Unsurprisingly, Erling Haaland continued his incredible form for Man City, slotting home Rico Lewis‘ cross after just 17 minutes, before Bernardo Silva rose highest in the box to head home City’s second.
While the home side did create chances, Gianluigi Donnarumma was relatively unchallenged throughout the 90 minutes, meaning he should be well-rested to face Unai Emery‘s side on Sunday, 26 October.
With that game in mind, these three players have surely done enough to keep their starting spots.
John Stones
John Stones is in talks for a new contract, and following his display against Villarreal mid-week, it is absolutely no surprise that he remains one of Guardiola’s go-to men this season.
Of course, his injury record must be accounted for, but the England international is incredibly versatile, calm under pressure, rarely loses focus, and is now one of the most experienced players in the squad.
The 31-year-old was able to drift into the centre of midfield, which could be even more vital should both Rodri and Nico Gonzalez be missing for the weekend.
Rico Lewis
Starting in midfield, Lewis helped set up the opening goal against Villarreal. He did everything expected of him and more, and that should be rewarded with a start at Villa Park.
The 20-year-old, naturally a full-back, last started in the Premier League back in August against Tottenham. He has rarely featured since then, but he made a huge impact in the Champions League.
That performance is not one that Guardiola can ignore, even with the number of special talents he has available to him on the bench at all times. City fans will want to see the academy graduate as well.
Savinho
Savinho also impressed against Everton, so it was unsurprising to see the Brazilian in the starting lineup against Villarreal. Guardiola will be relieved that the 21-year-old did not leave during the summer.
The flanks are seemingly where Man City lack the most depth, so it is a huge boost to see Savinho finally regain some form, having grabbed 10 assists during his first season in England.
He created several chances against La Liga opposition – his bread and butter – as well as completing multiple dribbles and crunching into challenges. He was all over the pitch and deserves his plaudits.