Pep Guardiola is looking to get his Manchester City side back to winning ways on Saturday against Brighton – and it’s possible he’ll also be undertaking a scouting mission.
City lost their last two Premier League matches before the international break.
Defeats to Wolves and then Arsenal have just knocked City slightly off course.
But Rodri is back available again now, and fans will be hoping his return can prompt a big improvement.
He was certainly missed in midfield.
But he’ll be back on Saturday and his return is timely, because City are taking on Brighton who are a solid side these days.
Roberto De Zerbi has gotten the Seagulls playing some brilliant stuff, and they have a number of top talents.
Evan Ferguson is arguably the jewel in the crown – and Pep will surely be keeping his eye on the 19-year-old when he comes to the Etihad…
Pep Guardiola may be keeping an eye on Evan Ferguson this weekend during Manchester City vs Brighton
Brighton come to the Etihad and are looking to hand City a third defeat in a row.
And they will likely be looking to striker Ferguson for inspiration on the day.
Ferguson has emerged as a seriously exciting young talent in recent times.
He’s scored four goals in eight Premier League appearances so far this term, with three of those coming against Newcastle United.
Ferguson looks the real deal, and has been described as ‘elite’ by WhoScored.
It was reported at the start of last month that City were plotting a future move for Ferguson.
So this is a great chance for Pep to actually catch Ferguson up close against some of his world-class stars.
If Ferguson can give a good account of himself against Ruben Dias and co, then he will surely see his card marked by the City manager.
City must beware Ferguson
The City defenders must make sure they are on top form on Saturday, because Ferguson is a real handful.
After his hat-trick against Newcastle, Gary Lineker actually likened the youngster to City’s Erling Haaland, which is a huge compliment.
He may have only turned 19 today, but Ferguson is definitely already a player to be feared.
He just seems to be tailor-made for the Premier League.
In an ideal world, Ferguson will have a good game on Saturday so that Pep is impressed by him, but he won’t play so well that it actually results in City dropping more points.
