Manchester City turn their attentions to the Premier League this weekend, as they travel to St Mary’s to take on Southampton on Sunday.
City will undoubtedly have on eye on the all-important Champions League semi-final second leg showdown with Real Madrid, but they are still looking to secure a top four finish to compete in the same competition next season.
Ronald Koeman’s side are in good form themselves and could sneak in to grab a European place. In recent meetings, City have ran out worthy winners but that won’t mean City take their opponents lightly.
However, with such a crucial game around the corner, Manuel Pellegrini will shuffle the pack and rotate his City side. David Silva and Yaya Toure both miss this one, though it is hoped the latter can return on Wednesday. Samir Nasri is back in the fold after suffering a muscle injury against Chelsea a few weeks back.
How will City line up on Sunday? Here is our Predicted XI.
Joe Hart
It’s possible that Pellegrini takes his rotation policy seriously and slots in Willy Caballero on Sunday. But in his current form, Joe Hart needs to start.
Pablo Zabaleta
Bacary Sagna deserves a rest and everything points towards Pablo Zabaleta starting at St Mary’s.
Nicolas Otamendi
The Argentine performed excellently against Real Madrid and should retain his place against Southampton
Eliaquim Mangala
Mangala’s performances of late have been positive and it makes sense to rest Vincent Kompany ahead of the Madrid clash.
Aleksandar Kolarov
Pellegrini will rotate at left-back – swapping Gael Clichy out of the side in place of Aleksandar Kolarov.
Fernando
The Brazilian should anchor the midfield once more on Sunday.
Fabian Delph
Delph produced perhaps his best City performance in the reverse fixture and he will benefit from Pellegrini’s plan to ring the changes on Sunday.
Jesus Navas
He was taken off in the second half against Real, but Jesus Navas looks set to start against Southampton.
Samir Nasri
In a big boost for the Blues, Samir Nasri has been declared fit for this one. Nailed on to start.
Raheem Sterling
Hasn’t set the world alight in his cameos since returning from injury. Should get the nod from the start on Sunday.
Wilfried Bony
I would not be surprised to see Aguero rested for Wednesday’s game and can see Wilfried Bony being selected up top to complete the City side.