1All eyes on Danilo
City’s new Brazilian signing was thrust straight into the spotlight for his debut in midweek – ironically against Real Madrid, the club he left to join Pep Guardiola’s squad.
And the 26-year-old slotted in seamlessly, producing an assured display at the back and giving plenty of notice that he will also be an asset going forward with his energy and eye for an opening.
Danilo’s versatility – he is just at home playing on the left or right of defence – will also be a major plus, particularly with fellow new signing Benjamin Mendy currently sidelined with a minor injury.
And the fact City round off their American tour with a clash against fellow Premier League title contenders Spurs will give Danilo the perfect opportunity to get up to speed with the demands and expectations of the English game.
2Title pointer
Having impressed hugely in sweeping past Real Madrid in Los Angeles, Saturday’s night’s Nashville showdown with Tottenham will be another perfect benchmark for the new season between what are, arguably, England’s two most exciting sides.
Maurico Pochettino’s men finished runners-up behind champions Chelsea last season and were unbeaten against City in the league, inflicting a 2-0 defeat on Guardiola’s side at White Hart Lane and then claiming a 2-2 draw at the Etihad.
So the transatlantic meeting at the Nissan Stadium will carry real meaning for both sides with no quarter given.
And if any extra edge were needed, the fact that new City right-back Kyle Walker could be lining up against his former team-mates just a fortnight after swapping London for Manchester will ensure the match is no mere friendly!
3Jesus warming up nicely
He may not have scored in the victory over Real Madrid – but Gabriel Jesus delivered a livewire performance that was difficult for the Spanish side to deal with.
He had numerous chances – most of which he carved out himself – and on another day could have bagged a couple of goals.
Pace, trickery and a constant desire to get inside the box and craft chances for himself, Jesus is one of the finest young forwards in the game.
He could be a key player for Guardiola this season and the Tottenham game provides a great opportunity for him to increase his fitness levels ahead of the season-opener against Brighton in two weeks’ time.
4Hand it to Ederson keeps the faith
Much like Danilo, Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson will be looking to build on his fine display against Madrid when City take on Spurs in Nashville.
He made a string of fine saves that frustrated the La Liga champions during City’s 4-1 win in LA and received high praise from Guardiola after the game.
The City boss believes he will soon be Brazil’s No. 1. A few more performances like his last one and his manager’s words will come true.
