Could we see a Manchester City youngster start against West Ham? | OneFootball

James McAtee showed last weekend against Leicester City that he is more than capable of helping Pep Guardiola’s squad. He made a crucial contribution off the bench during Manchester City’s 2-nil win over Leicester City last weekend. Heading into tomorrow’s Premier League fixture against could we see McAtee start? It wouldn’t be the worst idea, as Manchester City does appear to need the energy that McAtee could provide on the pitch.

Pep Guardiola admitted today during his pre-game press conference that McAtee showed he should have played more this season. Guardiola added that McAtee’s teammates were happy for their young teammate last weekend. When asked about McAtee, Guardiola said: “He made us believe that maybe he should’ve had more minutes, but he’s young, and a lot of games still to play, but of course he played really good. And the most important is all of his teammates were so happy, because he has big respect for how he behaves in the locker room.”

There is merit to the idea of McAtee starting tomorrow. At times this season Manchester City have appeared to lack legs and energy all over the pitch. On top of his undoubted talent McAtee could add that to City’s play. With Phil Foden having struggled last weekend perhaps it is time to give McAtee a start against West Ham. McAtee showed in his cameo appearance against Leicester City that he can add something different to City’s play. It was McAtee’s piece of skill that set up Erling Haaland’s goal during the second half at the King Power Stadium. Perhaps that is something he can bring to City’s starting lineup tomorrow.

James McAtee could start tomorrow against West Ham. It may be the ideal time to start the youngster after his performance last weekend. His confidence will be up and he could add another element to Manchester City’s play. It’s something for Pep Guardiola to ponder ahead of another big game for his team.