Manchester City return from the international break with a huge test against bitter rivals Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium this weekend. After an opening-day victory against Wolves, Pep Guardiola’s side suffered consecutive defeats to Tottenham and Brighton, heightening the importance of Sunday’s derby clash.
Squad Fitness Concerns
City’s preparation has been complicated by injuries, with John Stones and Omar Marmoush among those sidelined, while Rayan Aït-Nouri is ruled out. The break has, however, allowed players such as Abdukodir Khusanov to recover in time for potential involvement.
Key Team Selection Debates
- Goalkeeper: Despite the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma, James Trafford is tipped to retain his place to maintain consistency.
- Right-Back: Matheus Nunes could be deployed ahead of Rico Lewis, who recently signed a new contract until 2030.
- Centre-Back: Ruben Dias is expected to partner Khusanov, who has shaken off a minor muscular issue.
- Left-Back: With Aït-Nouri unavailable, Joško Gvardiol looks set for his first start of the season.
- Midfield: Rodri anchors the midfield, supported by Tijjani Reijnders and captain Bernardo Silva to provide balance, energy, and control.
- Attack: Erling Haaland will lead the line fresh off scoring five goals for Norway. Jérémy Doku is predicted to feature on the left, with Oscar Bobb continuing on the right.
Predicted Manchester City Starting XI
Starting XI: Trafford; Nunes, Khusanov, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri, Reijnders, Bernardo; Bobb, Haaland, Doku.
Substitutes: Donnarumma, Lewis, Stones, Aké, Nico, O’Reilly, Kovačić, Savinho, Foden.
Upcoming Fixtures
Following the derby, City face a crucial run of fixtures including Napoli in the Champions League, Arsenal away in the Premier League, and Huddersfield Town in the Carabao Cup third round.
FAQs
Will Donnarumma start for Manchester City against Manchester United?
No. Despite his arrival, James Trafford is predicted to start in goal to maintain stability.
Who will replace Rayan Aït-Nouri at left-back?
Joško Gvardiol is expected to step in on the left-hand side of defence.
Is Erling Haaland fit to play?
Yes. Haaland is in outstanding form, having scored five goals for Norway during the international break.
Which midfielders are likely to start?
Rodri will be joined by Tijjani Reijnders and Bernardo Silva in midfield.
Conclusion
Manchester City head into the Manchester derby under pressure to bounce back from back-to-back league defeats. Pep Guardiola is expected to blend youth with experience, sticking with James Trafford in goal, recalling Gvardiol at left-back, and leaning on Rodri and Haaland to inspire the side. A strong performance could reignite their Premier League campaign.
