Manchester City return to European action this week as they host reigning Serie A champions Napoli at the Etihad Stadium in their opening UEFA Champions League fixture.
Having responded to a run of disappointing results with a dominant 3-0 win over Manchester United, Pep Guardiola’s side will be aiming to carry that momentum into continental competition. The clash against Antonio Conte’s Napoli, however, promises to be a sterner test, particularly with the Italians welcoming back Kevin De Bruyne in their ranks following his surprise summer exit from Manchester.
Guardiola must contend with several injury concerns ahead of Thursday’s tie, with Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Omar Marmoush, and Mateo Kovacic all unavailable. There also remains uncertainty around John Stones after a minor muscle problem.
Predicted Manchester City Line-Up
Based on form, injuries, and Guardiola’s tactical tendencies, here is the expected starting XI against Napoli:
- Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma – Set for a second consecutive start after an impressive debut in the Manchester derby.
- Right-Back: Matheus Nunes – Expected to slot back in, offering versatility ahead of the weekend’s clash with Arsenal.
- Centre-Backs: Abdukodir Khusanov and Josko Gvardiol – Khusanov keeps his place after a strong performance, partnering Gvardiol in defence.
- Left-Back: Nico O’Reilly – Retains his place in the absence of Rayan Ait-Nouri, providing a youthful option on the flank.
- Midfield: Rodri, Nico, and Phil Foden – Rodri anchors, with Nico offering energy, while Foden operates in the advanced role against his former idol De Bruyne.
- Attack: Savinho, Erling Haaland, and Jeremy Doku – Savinho returns on the right, Haaland leads the line, and Doku keeps his place after shining against United.
Full Predicted XI
Donnarumma; Nunes, Khusanov, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Rodri, Nico, Foden; Savinho, Haaland, Doku.
Substitutes
Trafford, Ortega Moreno, Lewis, Stones, Mfuni, Dias, Ake, Reijnders, Bernardo, Mukasa, Bobb.
Key Talking Points
- Youth involvement: O’Reilly continues to be trusted in high-profile games, with Academy teammates Mukasa and Mfuni also on the fringes.
- Guardiola’s midfield rotation: Reijnders may be given a rest after consecutive starts, opening the door for Nico to step in.
- De Bruyne factor: All eyes will be on Kevin De Bruyne as he faces City for the first time since his summer departure.
FAQs
- When is Manchester City vs Napoli?
Thursday night at the Etihad Stadium, as part of the UEFA Champions League group stage.
- Who is unavailable for Manchester City?
Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Omar Marmoush, and Mateo Kovacic are all sidelined. John Stones remains a doubt.
- Will Kevin De Bruyne play against City?
Yes, he is set to return to Manchester with Napoli after joining the Italian champions on a free transfer this summer.
- Which youngsters could feature?
Nico O’Reilly is expected to start, while Stephen Mfuni and Divine Mukasa may be included in the matchday squad.
- Who leads the line for City?
As usual, Erling Haaland is predicted to spearhead the attack.
Conclusion
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City head into their clash with Napoli buoyed by a convincing derby win but tested by injuries and squad rotation. With youth talent set to feature and Erling Haaland leading the line, City will aim for a strong start to their Champions League campaign while contending with the emotional subplot of Kevin De Bruyne’s return to the Etihad.
