Could Pep Guardiola unleash Manchester City’s pace against Nottingham Forest?

Following on from their 2-nil defeat to Liverpool at Anfield Manchester City will take on Nottingham Forest at the Etihad on Wednesday evening in a crucial Premier League fixture. As City fell to another defeat at Anfield there were signs that City were slowly coming to life. They dominated possession after Liverpool’s early onslaught. But there was a lack of any cutting-edge and creativity going forward in the world champions’ play. As they take on Nottingham Forest on Wednesday is it the perfect opportunity for Pep Guardiola to unleash City’s pace in the wings at the Etihad? The idea has merit but it does come with risk.

In the second half of Sunday’s loss to Liverpool Jeremy Doku and Savinho came on midway through the second half. Of the pair, Jeremy Doku was the more impressive player. Doku did give the Liverpool defence a hard time in City’s left-hand side. Savinho was more in the periphery of the game as City’s play for the majority of the second half was focused on the left wing. But there was enough to suggest that the pair could offer a threat against Forest if they both start at the Etihad.

Although they did have their moments against Liverpool there was just a lack of a goal threat to City’s play. Perhaps by starting Doku and Savinho on the wings against Forest, it may help in that regard. Both players can beat a man, although their end product is still a work in progress. But they would offer pace and a direct threat to the Forest defence. I expect Nuno Espírito Santo’s side to sit deep defensively at the Etihad and look to hit City on the counter. Doku and Savinho could have a vital role to play if they start against Forest if that is how the game plays out. However, if they do, it could play into the visitor’s hands if it goes wrong.

But perhaps now is the time for Pep Guardiola to unleash City’s pace in wide areas. It may help unlock Erling Haaland as he cut a frustrated figure at Anfield. He lacked any real service against Liverpool and spent the game on the periphery of proceedings. If Savinho and Doku start they could help Haaland prosper. If Pep Guardiola decides to start Jack Grealish in midfield that may also help City keep control and add creativity to their midfield also. It is food for thought to ponder as Manchester City look to end their winless run against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday evening.

Manchester City’s upcoming clash against Nottingham Forest may be the time for Pep Guardiola to unleash City’s pace on the wings. Jeremy Doku and Savinho could have a vital role to play at the Etihad. If they both start they could help offer something different to City’s attacking play. It is something to ponder heading into another must win fixture for Manchester City. They need something to change their fortunes and perhaps starting Doku and Savinho could be it.