Manchester City are tipped to be the favourites for the Premier League title this season. After spending £219million in the summer, the Sky Blues have recruited ample amounts of exciting talent that will undoubtedly set the league alight. Here are five players expected to shine for Manchester City this season.
John Stones
The Englishman has come under much criticism since his emergence on the senior scene. Some have overrated him while others have severely disregarded his talent. However, after a year of Pep Guardiola coaching, John Stones will be expected to shine this season.
The 23-year old must now mature into England’s next defensive leader, that’s not scared to engage in 1v1s or bring the ball out from the back. Guardiola has entrusted Stones with a starting position in his defence, and the Englishman will have to repay that faith this season.
Kevin De Bruyne
The German playmaker has been billed as one of the most creative players in the world. That creative energy will be harnessed by Pep Guardiola, allowing the CAM to shine this season. Last season, the 26-year old produced 18 PL assists, his highest total in a league campaign.
The German will only get better this season, and with even more attacking talent around him, he’s set to take his game to new heights. Not only is he excepted to become the most creative CAM in the league this season, but he’s also expected to become the best in the world.
Gabriel Jesus
Since arriving in January, Gabriel Jesus has taken the Premier League by storm. The Brazilian has already scored 11 goals in the league in just 15 appearances. Manchester City seemingly have a real gem on their hands in the 20-year old.
His off the ball movement, excellent close control, agility and composure in front of goal are all assets that can’t be taught, they’re natural. Those natural attributes mixed with tactical knowledge could turn Jesus into the world’s best young striker. Big things are expected of the Brazilian this season.
Raheem Sterling
For a player that receives so much stick, Raheem Sterling has never disappointed in the Premier League. In 164 PL appearances, the Englishman has directly contributed to 58 goals. That’s an incredible return for a 22-year-old, but even bigger things are expected of the winger this season. In his first year under Pep Guardiola, Sterling scored 7 goals and assisted 6 times, that’s good but not exceptional.
This season he’s already scored 5 goals, thus living up to the idea that he’ll do bigger things this season. Guardiola is moulding the winger into an attacker that can play as an inside forward as well as an attacking midfielder. That versatility will prove vital this season as he performs at a higher level than before.
Leroy Sane
Leroy Sane is undoubtedly the most exciting young winger in the Premier League today. The youngster possesses all the traits to excel at an elite level. He’s quick, direct, has great technique and relentless in his desire to take on defenders. He’s an outlet that provides Manchester City with an option to stretch the pitch.
Already this season, Leroy Sane has directly contributed to 5 goals in 6 games. Such form is only expected to continue for the remainder of the season. We’ll see if the 21-year old can confirm his projected world-class status.
