Pep Guardiola could make changes to his back four this weekend, when Manchester City host Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
The Catalan selected Sergio Gomez at left-back in the midweek Champions League win, yet he has started just two previous Premier League matches - both of which came after City had won the title last season - so it’s unlikely the 23-year-old will be named in the XI on Saturday.
Guardiola does have the option of rotating in defence, with Rico Lewis, Manuel Aknaji and Josko Gvardiol all named on the bench against Red Star Belgrade. However, the City boss has limited resources in the midfield and offensive departments.
Bernardo Silva has been ruled out of Saturday’s game by Guardiola, while Kevin De Bruyne is a long-term absentee. However, Guardiola confirmed on Friday that Jack Grealish is available, with Mateo Kovacic close to a return.
City are expected to name a similar midfield and attack to the one which was selected on Tuesday, excluding the injured Silva. Guardiola admitted this week that his side are ‘in trouble’ due to the number of absentees, especially in the midst of a run of seven matches in 23 days.
Wednesday’s trip to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup will offer a chance to rest any senior players in need of a break, particularly Kyle Walker, Rodri and Erling Haaland, who have started all eight matches this season.
With all that in mind, here’s how City could line up against Forest at the Etihad…
1. GK: Ederson
Despite City’s impressive form, the goalkeeper hasn’t kept a clean sheet in his last four matches.
2. RB: Kyle Walker
Hasn’t missed a game so far this season and could be rotated, although the midweek trip to Newcastle looks more likely.
3. CB: Manuel Akanji
Came off the bench on Tuesday and could return to the side.
4. CB: Ruben Dias
Has played in the last five matches and appears to be Guardiola’s first-choice centre-back at present.