By Matt Smith
It’s a reasonably difficult race for Europe this yr, but it surely’s pretty simple for Man Metropolis to qualify for the Champions League. A win or draw at Craven Cottage can be sufficient, and an out-of-form Fulham facet stand of their method.
A repeat of the reverse fixture will do for Guardiola after they gained on the Etihad earlier within the season. The Spanish supervisor can be hoping it’s a bit of extra relaxed, with the Residents narrowly beating Fulham 3-2.
Crew information
Fulham can be with out Harrison Reed, Timothy Castagne, Rodrigo Muniz, and Reiss Nelson heading into this sport, however there shouldn’t be any recent harm considerations for the Cottagers.
Metropolis welcomed again essential midfielder Rodri earlier within the week, so will probably be fascinating to see whether or not he’s match sufficient to begin. Guardiola confirmed to the media forward of the sport that everybody is accessible besides John Stones, who stays on the harm checklist.
Fulham are a risk out broad
Fulham’s system permits Antonee Robinson to nearly play as a left winger when they’re in possession, bombing on down the flank and pumping crosses into the field to Raúl Jiménez. Robinson’s pinpoint deliveries have been a vital technique of assault, with the American worldwide choosing up 10 Premier League assists this season.
Silva’s facet have produced 6.3 correct crosses per sport this season, and it’s no shock with a participant like Jiménez attacking the ball. It’s actually one thing Metropolis must be cautious of.
Lack of creativity the distinction for Metropolis
It’s been a disappointing season by Metropolis’s lofty requirements, lacking out on the Premier League title – a rarity for Guardiola’s facet. Metropolis have created simply 66.2 anticipated objectives this season, with champions Liverpool producing a whopping 81.3%.
The drop-off in creating possibilities has been a priority for Metropolis, but it surely’s clear to see why. Phil Foden has endured a tough marketing campaign after performing so exceptionally final time period, whereas Kevin De Bruyne has struggled with accidents, beginning simply 19 Premier League video games this season.
Return of Rodri might be essential
There’s little question one other key purpose for Metropolis’s poor marketing campaign is the absence of Rodri. The Spanish midfielder has performed simply 73 minutes this season. Final time period, Rodri was essential, not just for defending the again 4 and constructing the play from deep, but in addition his objectives and creativity.
Final season, Rodri offered 17 objectives and assists mixed, an exceptional contribution for a defensive midfielder. His main position within the workforce is to take the ball from the defence and progress by the midfield, however he confirmed final time period that he has a lot extra to his sport than simply that.
Prediction
This sport is just too necessary for Man Metropolis. We’re going for a 3-1 win for Guardiola’s males.
(Cowl picture from IMAGO)
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