If there was ever a game for Pep Guardiola to rotate his squad, Saturday’s clash against Luton Town may just be the one.
The visit of Rob Edwards’ side comes sandwiched in between the monumental Champions League games against Real Madrid. City drew 3-3 at the Bernabeu in Tuesday’s quarter-final first leg and face the reverse fixture next Wednesday against Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
But with the matches piling up, Guardiola has expressed his concern over the fatigue levels in his squad. Rodri revealed this week that he needs a rest, while the likes of Ruben Dias, Manuel Ajanki, Josko Gvardiol and Jack Grealish have featured prominently in recent weeks.
A win over Madrid would mean City won’t face a free midweek before the end of the Premier League season, so rotation is going to be vital for Guardiola. The problem, however, is several injury concerns. Kyle Walker hasn’t played since the March international break, while Nathan Ake has missed the last three with a knock.
Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden are also doubts for the weekend game and it seems unlikely they’ll be selected if there is even a slight risk of them missing the second leg against Madrid. So it could be a somewhat unorthodox side that takes to the field on Saturday, especially with City up against a Luton outfit they should dispatch with relative ease.
The Hatters did win last time out - with a 2-1 victory over Bournemouth - but that was the first time since January that they’ve taken all three points in the league. Luton also have struggled on the road this season and have won just twice in 16 Premier League outings.
As if things weren’t tough enough for Saturday’s opponents, Luton’s squad has been decimated by injuries and up to 13 players might be unavailable for the clash at the Etihad. It’s why changes seem so likely for City - here’s how we think they might line-up on Saturday.
1. GK: Ederson
Guardiola said Ederson is available to start, and ahead of facing Madrid, this seems like a good game to ease the keeper back in. City's no.31 hasn't played in over a month since picking up a knock against Liverpool.
2. RB: Rico Lewis
It's likely that Lewis will play some role, whether that's in defence or midfield is the only question.
3. CB: Manuel Akanji
Was rested last weekend against Crystal Palace, so Akanji could play and allow Ruben Dias to be given a rare game off.
4. CB: John Stones
With the lack of defensive options, the England international might have to start at the heart of defence.