Manchester City know that a win over Leicester at the King Power Stadium on Saturday will take them to the top of the table until at least Sunday afternoon.
The visitors come into the clash having not scored away from home since September 17 when they defeated Wolves 3-0. Their goalless draw with Borussia Dortmund in midweek ensured they topped their Champions League group but at a slight cost.
Erling Haaland came off at half-time with a fever and a knock and is a doubt for the trip to Leicester. Speaking after the game, Pep Guardiola explained: “Erling had a bit of fever before the game, Joao [Cancelo] as well. I saw him tired.”
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In Friday's press conference, Guardiola gave an update on the situation, saying: "He feels better, we are training this afternoon and we will assess. We'll see how he's feeling and if he's fit. After we decide."
When selecting their line-up City fans took this into account and are hoping Guardiola does not risk Haaland against the Foxes, who are unbeaten in three. Instead, they have chosen Julian Alvarez to start his second Premier League match.
Alvarez has played 90 minutes in the club’s last three Champions League games but his only league start came in the 6-0 thrashing of Nottingham Forest, when he netted two of his three goals this season.
They want him to be flanked by Phil Foden and Jack Grealish, who would come in for Riyad Mahrez following his latest missed penalty against Dortmund. The usual trio of Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri and Bernardo Silva has been selected in midfield but fans wish to see a slight alteration in defence.
They have chosen Manuel Akanji to come in at right-back for John Stones while Aymeric Laporte replaces Nathan Ake to partner Ruben Dias in central defence. Left-back Cancelo and goalkeeper Ederson retain their places.
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