Pep Guardiola could rest a number of key players for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest.
The game comes just three days after Manchester City’s win over Arsenal, and four days before the Champions League first leg against RB Leipzig. It means there could be plenty of changes for the Blues at the City Ground.
Ederson is one player who certainly won’t be rested, although he wasn’t at his best in midweek at the Emirates. In defence, it has been difficult to predict Guardiola’s back four in recent games, with Bernardo Silva a surprise choice at left-back.
He could do the same again on Saturday, although Nathan Ake, Aymeric Laporte and Sergio Gomez are also options. Ake and Laporte might also play at centre-back, with Ruben Dias and Manuel Akanji the other choices. Meanwhile at right-back it’s likely to be one of Kyle Walker or Rico Lewis.
Kalvin Phillips could be handed a first Premier League start for City if Guardiola decides to freshen up his midfield, especially with Silva playing in defence. Rodri would be the most likely to sit the game out if Phillips plays, while Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne could also start.
In the attacking areas, Riyad Mahrez, Erling Haaland and Jack Grealish have been the preferred front three in recent games, with Phil Foden not starting a league match in over a month. He may be drafted in at the City Ground, while Julian Alvarez should be fresh having not played a huge amount in recent weeks. Here’s how we think City will line up at the weekend…
1. GK: Ederson
Not missed a league match this season and almost certain to start.
2. RB: Rico Lewis
Walker could be rested and allow Lewis to start after he’s sat out the last two.
3. CB: Manuel Akanji
Didn’t start in midweek and likely to return to the team.
4. CB: Aymeric Laporte
Given a night off on Wednesday and one of the predicted changes.