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Midfield
Right Central Midfield: Kevin de Bruyne
Manchester City's sole shining star during a stuttering 2019-20 campaign, Kevin De Bruyne, is undoubtedly Pep Guardiola's first name on the team sheet. The Belgian racked up 13 goals and 20 assists for City last season to win the PFA Player of the Year award, although that was not an accolade he particularly cared for.
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Such is Manchester City's strength in this position that even when De Bruyne is unable to play, the club has the likes of Ilkay Gundogan to call upon, although the German has been rather off form of late.
Nevertheless, if Pep Guardiola is to lift yet another Premier League trophy this season, one can be sure that Kevin De Bruyne will be at the heart of it, such is his influence on the pitch. His vision, passing accuracy and ability to control the pace of games will be crucial as Manchester City attempt to put their opponents to the sword.
Central Defensive Midfield: Rodri
It is perhaps the most contentious of positions that Pep Guardiola has to preside over since many believe that Fernandinho is still Manchester City's best option at the base of their midfield, despite his age.
Rodri came into the Premier League with a big price tag but has failed to justify it fully so far. The Spaniard was given plenty of game-time in the 2019-20 campaign, but he took too long to adapt to the English game, with his errors compounding Manchester City's defensive struggles.
However, there's an element of 'scapegoat'ism when it comes to the criticism of Rodri as Manchester City struggled in multiple defensive positions in 2019-20. Fernandinho is no spring chicken, and given the raw attributes that Rodri possesses, it will be no surprise to see the latter anchor the base of the Sky Blues' midfield.
Left Central Midfield: Phil Foden
The pain of David Silva's departure after a legendary trophy-laden decade at Manchester City was offset by the promise of Phil Foden for many a City fan. The English youngster may have had his off-field issues with the national team, but when it comes to his performances on the pitch, there is very little doubt about his prowess.
With a goal contribution every 104 minutes of the 1770 he saw last season, there are quite a few expectations on Foden's young shoulders, with many expecting the player to have a breakout season.
Bernardo Silva or Ilkay Gundogan will be on hand to take his position if Foden falters, so the youngster ought to be kept on his toes, although the likelihood of him losing focus seems minimal. Foden's attacking temperament might mean that in the big games he could be dropped. But as many of the Premier League teams set up in low blocks against City, Foden's driving runs and passing ability may come in handy.
