Tottenham Hotspur travel to the Etihad this weekend to take on Manchester City in what promises to be a stern early-season test. Spurs may have an excellent recent record against City – including that famous 4–0 victory at the Etihad last season – but few would expect a repeat given Pep Guardiola’s side’s explosive start to the campaign.
For Thomas Frank, the build-up has been complicated by injuries. James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski remain long-term absentees, while Radu Drăgușin will also miss out. Yves Bissouma is sidelined, though there is scepticism in some quarters as to whether the “injury” is more closely tied to ongoing transfer speculation. Destiny Udogie is back in training but will not be risked, with the manager confirming he needs another week to build fitness.
Formation
Frank is expected to stick with the 3-5-2/5-3-2 system used effectively against PSG in the Super Cup. The set-up gives Spurs greater stability at the back while offering an outlet on the counter through the front two.
Predicted XI
Goalkeeper: Guglielmo Vicario
The Italian returns to the Etihad where he produced arguably his best performance in a Spurs shirt last season, before suffering a broken ankle that ruled him out for three months. His shot-stopping will need to be at its very best once again.
Defence: Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero (c), Kevin Danso, Micky van de Ven, Djed Spence
Porro’s delivery and ball progression from deep could be a key weapon in exploiting City’s high line, while Djed Spence is tipped to start at left wing-back. Spence’s one-on-one defending will be crucial, likely coming up against Oscar Bobb, who impressed in City’s opener.
In the back three, captain Cristian Romero anchors the defence, flanked by Kevin Danso and the rapid Micky van de Ven. The trio will share the unenviable task of keeping Erling Haaland quiet – with Danso dealing with aerial balls, Romero snapping into duels on the ground, and Van de Ven covering runs in behind.
Midfield: João Palhinha, Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Matar Sarr
A physical, combative midfield is expected. Palhinha will be tasked with breaking up play and disrupting City’s rhythm, while Sarr’s dynamism and energy will be vital in transition. Bentancur adds experience and composure, offering Spurs an outlet when under pressure. Lucas Bergvall is pushing for involvement, but Bentancur’s leadership and know-how in big fixtures should see him start.
Attack: Richarlison, Mohammed Kudus
Richarlison leads the line after a fine run of form, combining tireless pressing with an eye for goal. His hold-up play will be central to Spurs’ attempts to relieve pressure and spring counters.
Alongside him, Mohammed Kudus brings flair and unpredictability. Fresh from tormenting PSG in pre-season, the Ghanaian will look to trouble City’s defence both in transition and by winning fouls in dangerous areas – an important factor given Spurs’ growing reputation as a set-piece threat under Frank.
Key Battles
Tottenham’s ability to compete physically in midfield will be decisive. Palhinha vs Reijnders promises to be a key duel, while Romero’s aggression against Haaland could define the contest. At the other end, Kudus’ dribbling and Richarlison’s finishing must be sharp if Spurs are to capitalise on rare opportunities.
Predicted Line-Up (3-5-2)
Vicario
Porro – Romero – Danso – Van de Ven – Spence
Sarr – Palhinha – Bentancur
Kudus – Richarlison
Tottenham arrive at the Etihad as underdogs, but with a clear gameplan. If Frank’s men can frustrate City, make their set-pieces count, and find moments of brilliance from their front two, Spurs may just extend their remarkable recent record against the champions.
