Tottenham vs. Man City Lineup: Van de Ven Doubts Loom

adminsportify By adminsportify February 1, 2026

Thomas Frank is expected to have a stronger squad available for Sunday’s Premier League match against Manchester City. This opportunity could be crucial for Tottenham, as they have the potential to impact Arsenal’s title aspirations by securing points against the reigning champions. However, this game pales in comparison to the one that Ange Postecoglou faced two seasons ago.

With a significant amount of football still to be played, there remains ample time for Arsenal to falter, regardless of how well Frank’s team performs against City. The hosts are entering the contest on the back of a recent victory over German opposition, which secured their place in the Champions League round of 16. This win has certainly lifted the mood at White Hart Lane.

While Frank has dealt with some availability issues in European competitions, these challenges seem to ease off domestically. Here’s a look at the potential starting lineup he might choose for the clash against Pep Guardiola’s side.

Predicted Tottenham Lineup vs. Man City (3-4-3)

Goalkeeper & Defenders

Guglielmo Vicario (GK)

Vicario has been busy whenever City visits, and he hasn’t yet recorded a home Premier League win against the former champions.

Kevin Danso (CB)

Even if Micky van de Ven is back, Danso could retain his spot if Frank continues with a back three.

Cristian Romero (CB)

The captain will likely be at the heart of Tottenham’s defense, tasked with marking Erling Haaland. Haaland ended his open-play goal drought during the week.

Micky van de Ven (CB)

Frank described van de Ven’s injury as “minor” and expects him to be fit for the match against City.

Midfielders & Wing-Backs

Djed Spence (RWB)

Spence is a strong candidate to start in Pedro Porro’s absence. He will operate high and wide in possession within this formation.

João Palhinha (CM)

Palhinha performed well in the back three on Wednesday night, but it’s likely that Frank will return him to the midfield engine room.

Conor Gallagher (CM)

Pape Matar Sarr’s return from the Africa Cup of Nations highlights the curiosity around Gallagher’s signing. Although his start has been quiet, Frank is expected to bring him back into the starting XI after he was ineligible for the league phase.

Destiny Udogie (LWB)

João Souza trained during the week and is set to be in the squad, but he won’t displace Udogie anytime soon.

Forwards

Wilson Odobert (AM)

This system allows Odobert to receive the ball in dangerous positions between the lines. His shooting has improved, and he has been one of Spurs’ standout performers so far in 2026.

Xavi Simons (AM)

If Spurs faced German opposition every week, Xavi would be a £100m asset. While he hasn’t fully adapted to the physicality of the Premier League, City’s defense has vulnerabilities that he can exploit.

Dominic Solanke (ST)

Although Randal Kolo Muani looked threatening in the previous match, Solanke, who scored off the bench, is likely to take his place up front. City’s defense, bolstered by Marc Guéhi’s arrival, can still be targeted.

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