Manchester City return to competitive action this Saturday when they take on Manchester United in the Community Shield.
For both sides, the new campaign ends as the last one started: A Manchester derby at Wembley.
City have struggled in this fixture over recent years and have lost the season curtain raiser in each of the last three years. The Premier League champions will be desperate to begin the new term with a win over their rivals and by picking up silverware, but it’s likely there will be an experimental feel to Saturday’s game.
United have been rocked by a defensive injury crisis ahead of the game and the availability of those involved in this summer’s major international tournaments is unclear.
City are in a similar boat and majority of those who played at Euro 2024 and the Copa America only returned to training in the last week, while Kyle Walker, John Stones, Rodri and Phil Foden still aren’t back in pre-season following their extended runs with England and Spain.
The Blues were forced to select understrength XIs across their four US friendlies and, with the plethora of missing senior players, the team was bolstered by the inclusion of several youngsters. It’s likely Guardiola’s side at Wembley will resemble the XI that was selected in last week's final summer friendly against Chelsea.
There is expected to be at least one change though, with Josh Wilson-Esbrand picking up a knock in that match. Here’s the side we expect City to line up with this weekend…
9. RW: Oscar Bobb
The standout player over the pre-season fixtures and could be in line for a much bigger role this campaign, particularly in the opening weeks.
10. ST: Erling Haaland
Scored five in four over the summer games and should be well rested after a long break. City's no.9 has struggled with some 'niggles' during pre-season, but played 80 minutes last time out against Chelsea.
11. LW: Jack Grealish
Spoke of having a 'head start' on his fellow City attackers, and will need to get this season off to a flying start following his disappointing '23/24 campaign.