Roberto Mancini’s riches are already begin to trouble us Fantasy Managers. Today’s victory at the Reebok may have added further evidence to suggest that they are a team filled with Fantasy talent, but it’s also clear that our quest for secure sources of Fantasy points looks a tough one.
David Silva’s opening goal, although exposing Jussi Jaaskelainen, reinforced the argument that the Spaniard could emerge as the standout midfield option this term. Once again he was City’s creative spark, feeding off the industry of Gareth Barry, James Milner and Yaya Toure in the engine room. Silva looks nailed-on for starts – the likely protagonist in City’s title tilt, but he also looks the exception in Mancini’s impressive armoury.
Toure will get starts but the role handed to him is a concern. So impressive when pushed forward to exert pressure on the Swansea defence on Monday, today, with Nigel De Jong nursing a foot injury, Mancini shackled Toure in a holding midfield role. He obliged with a disciplined showing that proved fruitless for us Fantasy managers. The ease at which Toure adapts to this role is a worry – particularly when City come up against more testing opposition when Mancini will be tempted to temper the Ivorian’s attacking instincts, hindering his potential.
Similar the sight of Carlos Tevez on the City bench, apparently content to extend his residence in Mancini’s squad, will be a concern for those who were seduced by the brilliance of Segio Aguero in Monday night’s game. City’s new Argentinian had ample opportunities to add to his tally but ultimately drew a frustrating blank. Inevitably, Tevez replaced him with over 20 minutes remaining – you could taste the disappointment amongst the Fantasy fraternity. In a brief appearance, Tevez also showed an appetite to be part of things – that has to be a worry.
With such an option on the sidelines, we can only anticipate that Aguero will always be vulnerable – perhaps not for starts, but certainly to having his pitch time cut by the introduction of his compatriot. Can Fantasy managers be content with that prospect week in week out?
Edin Dzeko’s start to the season doesn’t help matters– while plenty will be contemplating Fantasy investment in a striker who has notched 2 goals and put in a pair of impressive displays, there will always be concern that Mancini will shift to a 4-5-1 with Adam Johnson or even Mario Balotelli given run-outs on the flank.
For now Dzeko is picking himself by Mancini’s approach to the teamsheet is fickle and it can afford to be. City appear to have an appetite for goals and an array of providers queuing up to impress. Great for the Italian boss and City’s ambitions – potentially frustrating for Fantasy managers looking to capitalise. At least there is a Silva lining.
