The Bees Challenge Manchester City in Top-Flight Fixture
Match Buildup
Manchester City Head Coach Pep Guardiola remarked on the team's initial season form:
“Our development should be improved, understanding what the opponent does, spaces to attack, the impression we're creating again, the pace and speed which is impressive and our forward play smoother and more consistently, we can do specific actions that need refinement, and I appreciate that.”
Opposing Manager Praise
Brentford manager Andrews discussed Pep Guardiola's legacy:
“He has likely been the top coach over the past decade and a half; the way he's coached the sport, how he has transformed football's perception and executed with multiple clubs and in different countries.”
Confirmed Lineups
The Bees Lineup:
- Kelleher, Defender, Center-Back, Backline, Fullback, Midfielder, Henderson, Midfield, Hickey, Forward, Thiago
Reserves: Attacker, Henry, Janelt, Playmaker, Forward, Onyeka, Winger, Pinnock, Goalkeeper
City Starting XI:
- Donnarumma, Defender, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly, Rodri, Savinho, Midfield, Foden, Forward, Haaland
Bench: Defender, Cherki, Winger, González, Kovačić, Midfield, Silva, Stones, Trafford
Preamble
Welcome to live updates of this top-flight match between The Bees and Manchester City at Brentford's arena. This encounter is the battle of the No 9s.
On Brentford's side is Thiago. Before Antoine Semenyo's stellar performance against Fulham, the Brazilian had been among the top scorers in the division with a quartet of strikes in six matches. He’s remarkably efficient with a strong conversion percentage, as his first goal against United highlighted.
On Manchester City's side features the Norwegian. Haaland has been City's top performer this season. He has bagged 17 strikes in 10 games for City and Norway and continues displaying his trademark prowess. He’s never scored at this venue in past visits so he aims to open his account.
Three points for Brentford would result in back to back wins against the two Manchester teams. For Guardiola, this match offers an opportunity to record a 250th Premier League success as City manager. Victory would see him become the most rapid tactician to achieve such a feat with one Premier League club.
The beginning is at 16:30.
