Although it’s still early in the 2024/25 Premier League season, Manchester City’s upcoming clash with Tottenham Hotspur after the international break feels like a must-win.
Pep Guardiola’s team has a history of excelling as title race chasers, famously overtaking Liverpool in 2019 and 2022 and Arsenal in 2024. However, allowing Arne Slot’s Spurs to extend their current five-point lead further would be far from ideal, especially given Tottenham’s impressive form.
City have looked vulnerable in Rodri’s absence, and staying within touching distance of Liverpool has become more critical than ever. The Reds have been relentless this season, making it difficult to imagine them dropping unnecessary points. A victory over Tottenham, particularly if Liverpool stumbles against Southampton, could significantly boost City’s title aspirations.
### Spurs Could Be Missing Key Players
Tottenham’s preparations for the Etihad clash have been hampered by several setbacks. The BBC confirmed Rodrigo Bentancur will serve a seven-match ban for racially insensitive comments directed at Son Heung-min. Meanwhile, *The Standard* reports that four other key players could also miss the match due to injuries.
– **Micky van de Ven**: The defender sustained a hamstring injury during Spurs’ 2-1 Carabao Cup win over City. Although it’s not a serious injury, Saturday’s match may come too soon for his return.
– **Cristian Romero**: The Argentine center-back was substituted at halftime in his country’s 2-1 loss to Paraguay. Reports suggest he aggravated an existing injury from Spurs’ 4-1 defeat to Aston Villa, casting doubt on his availability.
– **Wilson Odobert**: Tottenham confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that the winger underwent surgery on his right hamstring and is expected to be sidelined for a significant period.
– **Richarlison**: The Brazilian striker recently revealed via Instagram that he suffered a fresh injury after assisting Dominic Solanke’s goal against Aston Villa.
### City’s Injury Concerns and the International Break
Manchester City, too, have been dealing with a spate of injuries. However, Bernardo Silva views the international break as a blessing in disguise. “This break has been very beneficial for us,” he said. “Let’s not deny it, it was a difficult time for our team. At City, I can’t even remember losing two games in a row. It’s done us good because there are players who will be back from injury, and we have fresh heads to get back to our maximum level.”
Only seven City players departed for international duty, reflecting the toll injuries have taken on Guardiola’s squad. If key players like Kevin De Bruyne, Ruben Dias, and Manuel Akanji return to the lineup, City could capitalize on Tottenham’s absences and establish themselves as favorites to win at home.
### A Crucial Turning Point
While Tottenham will aim to rebound from their 2-1 loss to Ipswich Town, City must seize this opportunity to reduce the gap at the top. With both teams facing challenges, the outcome of this match could have significant implications for the title race.
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