Arsenal defender William Saliba believes Manchester City will have to fight for the three points against Spurs on Tuesday night.
Ange Postecoglou‘s side know that they could hand their North London rivals the title if they take points off the Cityzens but Saliba believes that they do have an incentive to win – Champions League qualification. Asked whether he fears a lack of fight from Tottenham’s players, Saliba said:
“No, I don’t think so – because they want to play in the Champions League next season. I think they will try to win. I know their fans don’t want them to win against City, but they are good competitors so I think they will try their best to win against City.”
“We know that Tottenham is a very good team. Our first game and second game with them was not easy. I hope they will be at their best on Tuesday.”
Spurs’s motivation could depend on another factor
Aston Villa face Liverpool at home in the Monday night fixture and, if Unai Emery’s men do secure the three points, they will seal Champions League qualification.
The Villans would move on to 70 points, with Spurs only able to reach 69 if they win their final two matches. City should, therefore, be rooting for the Midlands club this evening.
City don’t have a good record at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
One of the big concerns that supporters have heading into their next game is the club’s record against Spurs away from home. They have never won a league game since the London side moved into their new ground.
However, Guardiola’s men did win there back in January, when a Nathan Ake goal two minutes from time secured a 1-0 victory in the fourth round of the FA Cup. Fans would rip your hand off for the same scoreline on Tuesday.
