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Manchester City vs. Tottenham Hotspur: Combined XI

By Scott Stewart

Jul 29, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Tottenham Hotspur forward Harry Kane (18) celebrates after scoring against the MLS All Stars during the first half of the 2015 MLS All Star Game at Dick
Jul 29, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Tottenham Hotspur forward Harry Kane (18) celebrates after scoring against the MLS All Stars during the first half of the 2015 MLS All Star Game at Dick /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 06: David Silva of Manchester City during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between West Ham United and Manchester City at London Stadium on January 6, 2017, in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 06: David Silva of Manchester City during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between West Ham United and Manchester City at London Stadium on January 6, 2017, in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images) /

CM: Victor Wanyama vs. David Silva

Though this was less than the ideal comparison, it was crucial to saving Dele vs. De Bruyne (another spoiler!), leaving Victor Wanyama up against David Silva in the fight for the second central role in midfield.

Right off the bat, it again appears to an attacking midfielder vs. a defensive midfielder and a battle based on preference. Wanyama has completed more passes (but at an equal percentage), has more blocks and interceptions, and has completed a higher percentage of his take-ons. Wanyama provides a foundation for the Spurs midfield, and he’s not too shabby going forward with the attack scoring two goals this season.

The problem for Wanyama is that Manchester City midfielder David Silva is at a higher level offensively. The Spaniard has created more chances, completed more key passes, provided more assists (four to Wanyama’s zero) and presents a flair that the Tottenham man cannot replicate.

Alongside Yaya Toure, Wanyama would probably not let a single thing through, but the ability for David Silva to attack would probably not be lessened by Moussa Dembele had the Belgian been favored over his City teammate. Through stats and what cannot be statistically replicated, though, Silva would likely get the start over Wanyama.

Selection: David Silva

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