Manchester City continue their FA Cup defence tonight against Luton Town at Kenilworth Road. The FA Cup holders will attempt to advance to the sixth round of the competition but will face a stiff test against Rob Edwards side at Kenilworth Road. City won their earlier this season with goals from Bernardo Silva and Jack Grealish sealing a hard-fought 2-1 win in their Premier League encounter earlier this campaign.
Heading into the game the Manchester City squad is nearing full strength. Pep Guardiola told the media before his team faces Luton Town that Josko Gvardiol is nearing a return to full fitness. With the Croatian international having almost recovered from an ankle ligament injury it means the FA Cup holders will have a full-strength squad ahead of a crucial run of fixtures starting tonight.
With all of that in mind here is how Manchester City could line up as they continue their FA Cup defence tonight.
Predicted Manchester City starting lineup
Stefan Ortega: Manchester City’s cup keeper should get a run-out tonight. Ortega is always impressive when given the opportunity and another chance should present itself for Ortega tonight.
Kyle Walker: City’s captain was rested against Bournemouth. He should take his place at right-back tonight.
Ruben Dias: It is a toss-up between John Stones and Dias as to who will be given a rest tonight. Given Stones injury record this campaign Dias will likely start against Luton.
Manuel Akanji: Manchester City’s Mr Versatile will likely get the nod tonight. His ability to play anywhere across the back four could be relied upon at Kenilworth Road.
Nathan Ake: It is between Ake and Sergio Gomez for the left-back role tonight. Given Luton Town’s aerial threat, Ake may be given the nod ahead of the Gomez.
Mateo Kovacic: Tonight’s game is the ideal opportunity to give Rodri a well-needed rest. With that being the case it should provide Kovacic the opportunity to take on more responsibility.
Matheus Nunes: A more familiar midfield role may await Nunes tonight. He played on the left wing against Bournemouth but should start in a more comfortable role tonight.
Jack Grealish: The England international is making his way back from a groin injury. He scored against Luton earlier this season and could start tonight. It may be the ideal game for Grealish to launch into a crucial part of the season.
Phil Foden: Has been in outstanding form and should start again tonight. He could be rested but given his form and fitness Foden may start in the middle of the park to continue his recent sparkling form.
Oscar Bobb: Fresh off signing a contract extension Bobb should start tonight. More responsibility awaits the youngster and tonight’s game is the ideal opportunity to impress for Oscar Bobb.
Erling Haaland: It’s a toss of the coin as to who will start between Haaland and Alvarez. Haaland was substituted in the second half of City’s win over Bournemouth and could be given the nod tonight to lead the line.
