Manchester City finds itself in a bit of an unfamiliar situation heading into the final Premier League game of 2024. After a frustrating period marked by inconsistency, the reigning Premier League champions have fallen to seventh place in the table, a far cry from their usual dominance. With just one win in their last 13 games across all competitions, Manchester City’s form has been disappointing. Their European hopes are also hanging in the balance with a precarious position in the all-new Champions League league phase. Despite these challenges, Manchester City will be eager to finish 2024 on a high note when they face Leicester Manchester City in their final game of the calendar year.
Leicester, on the other hand, has been enduring a disastrous season of their own. The Foxes are slowly sinking towards the Championship, and while there is still hope, the inevitable relegation looms large. Ruud van Nistelrooy’s appointment hasn’t been enough to change Leicester’s fortunes so far, and they will be looking for anything positive in this upcoming encounter.
While the match may have lost some of its glamour due to City’s slump and Leicester’s struggles, it still offers an opportunity for both teams to end the year with a positive result. For City, it’s about clawing their way back into the top four, a target they now have to set their sights on instead of defending their title. Can they show the form that led them to consecutive Premier League titles in recent seasons, or will their season continue to spiral downward?
Man City Predicted Lineup vs Leicester: Premier League (4-1-4-1)
Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding City’s current campaign, manager Pep Guardiola will be hoping to field his strongest available XI for the final Premier League fixture of the year. With the team’s injury woes and rotation needs, here’s how Manchester City could line up against Leicester:
Goalkeeper: Stefan Ortega
Ederson’s absence due to a knock on Boxing Day left Manchester City’s goalkeeping responsibilities in the hands of Stefan Ortega. The Brazilian’s quick recovery is uncertain, and with the quick turnaround before the Leicester game, it’s likely that Ortega will keep his place between the sticks. Ortega’s performances have been solid when called upon, and with Ederson’s fitness still in question, he will likely continue as City’s first-choice goalkeeper for this match.
Right-Back: Rico Lewis
Kyle Walker’s future at Manchester City has been a topic of discussion over the last few months. The experienced right-back has gradually fallen out of favor under Pep Guardiola, and with Walker struggling with illness, it seems unlikely that he will feature against Leicester. This opens the door for young Rico Lewis to start at right-back once again. The 19-year-old has impressed when given the opportunity this season, and Guardiola will be relying on him to provide defensive stability while also offering an outlet going forward.
Center-Backs: Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake
In central defense, Manuel Akanji has been a mainstay in City’s backline this season. The Swiss defender has provided some calm amidst the chaos that has characterized City’s defensive efforts this term. Despite being part of a defense that has come under scrutiny, Akanji’s composure has often stood out, even though his individual performance against Everton was less than perfect.
Alongside Akanji, Nathan Ake’s return to the starting XI after a spell on the sidelines is a significant boost for Manchester City. Ake was substituted in the second half against Everton, but his inclusion in the starting lineup was a welcome sign for Guardiola. There are no indications of a fresh injury, but the Dutch defender’s fitness needs to be monitored carefully given the demanding schedule. Ake’s ability to play both in central defense and as a left-back adds flexibility, and his presence is key to providing solidity in defense.
Left-Back: Josko Gvardiol
Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol has had an up-and-down season since joining Manchester City. Despite his potential, Gvardiol has made several costly errors at the back, often leaving fans and pundits questioning his readiness for a starting role. However, Gvardiol remains an attacking threat from left-back, offering an additional dimension in City’s buildup play. With City needing to strengthen their defense and improve their overall performance, Guardiola will be hoping for a more solid and focused display from the Croatian against Leicester.
Defensive Midfield: Ilkay Gundogan
Manchester City’s midfield has faced significant issues with injuries and inconsistency throughout the season. Rodri, the usual anchor in midfield, has been unavailable for certain matches, leaving Guardiola to rotate his midfield options. Ilkay Gundogan, who has also had his fair share of struggles this season, could be deployed at the base of midfield against Leicester. Gundogan’s experience will be crucial in this match, especially in a game where Leicester’s counter-attacks may present a threat. Given that Leicester has not been particularly lethal in attack this season, Gundogan will look to stabilize City’s midfield and control the tempo of the game.
Right Midfield: Bernardo Silva
Bernardo Silva has been a key player for Manchester City in recent years, but his performances this term have been inconsistent. The Portuguese international has the ability to unlock defenses with his dribbling and creativity, but his impact has been more sporadic than usual. Against Everton, Bernardo was involved in some good moments, but City failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Against Leicester, Guardiola will need the best of Bernardo, as he can provide the flair and attacking drive to break down Leicester’s defense.
Attacking Midfield: Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne’s season has been a mixture of injuries and sporadic appearances. However, the Belgian playmaker remains one of City’s most important players, particularly in big matches. After coming on as a substitute against Everton, De Bruyne could return to the starting XI for the clash against Leicester. His vision, passing range, and ability to score goals make him a constant threat, especially against a Leicester side that has struggled defensively. If De Bruyne can find his rhythm, he could be the key to unlocking Leicester’s defense and providing City with the creative spark they need.
Attacking Midfield: Phil Foden
Phil Foden’s season has been a quiet one, with the England international failing to replicate the form that made him one of City’s standout players in previous campaigns. However, in recent weeks, Foden has shown signs of regaining his best form. He scored his first league goal of the season in City’s victory over Aston Villa, and Guardiola will be hoping this marks the beginning of a strong run for Foden. His ability to drive at defenses and create goal-scoring opportunities could be crucial against a Leicester side that is struggling at the back.
Left Midfield: Jeremy Doku
Jeremy Doku has been a revelation for Manchester City in his debut season. The Belgian winger’s pace and directness have injected much-needed energy into City’s attack, which has often looked labored in recent weeks. Against Everton, Doku was one of the standout performers, showing glimpses of his potential. His ability to stretch the opposition’s defense and create space for his teammates will be essential against Leicester. While Doku is far from the finished article, his raw talent is undeniable, and he will be looking to make a big impact in this crucial game.
Striker: Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland’s form has been a major talking point this season. The Norwegian striker has been unable to replicate the goal-scoring feats that made him the talk of the Premier League last season. Haaland’s struggles continued against Everton, where he missed a penalty, and he has only scored once since the November international break. However, Haaland remains a clinical finisher, and Guardiola will be hoping he can find his shooting boots against Leicester. With City needing to win, Haaland’s ability to convert chances will be crucial for securing three points.
Final Thoughts
As Manchester City heads into their final Premier League match of 2024, the pressure is on for them to end the year on a high note. While their form has been far from ideal, the quality and depth in their squad mean that they are still capable of turning their season around. Leicester, however, will not be an easy opponent, and despite their struggles, they will be fighting for survival.
For City, the focus must be on regaining momentum and securing a top-four finish. The title race may already be out of reach, but securing Champions League qualification is still within their grasp. A win against Leicester would go a long way in boosting morale and giving Guardiola and his players the confidence they need heading into 2025.
The predicted lineup against Leicester reflects the squad’s current strengths and weaknesses, with key players like Haaland, De Bruyne, and Doku needing to step up. City fans will be hoping for a much-improved performance to ensure the year ends on a positive note.
