Following on from their 4-nil drubbing at the hands of Tottenham, Manchester City return to Champions League action tonight. They take on Feyenoord at the Etihad. Tonight’s match looms as a crucial fixture in City’s Champions League campaign. A win would see Pep Guardiola’s side move a step closer to sealing a top-eight position in the league phase table.
The game is also a chance for the world champions to regain some confidence after 5 consecutive defeats in all competitions. But Feyenoord will be no pushover and will be eager to continue City’s barren run.
Latest Manchester City injury news
There was good news on the injury front for the world champions yesterday. Ruben Dias and Jeremy Doku were pictured training at City’s open training session which was shared on mancity.com. That is welcome news for Pep Guardiola’s side as they begin to get players back. Kevin De Bruyne is also pain free as per Pep Guardiola’s update yesterday. De Bruyne has made three substitute appearances since his return from a groin injury. The hope is he can start tonight’s match to give City a much-needed boost.
However, it wasn’t all positive news on the injury front for Manchester City. John Stones failed to train after being substituted at half-time of City’s loss to Tottenham. It remains to be seen how long Stones will be sidelined for. He joins Rodri, Oscar Bobb and Mateo Kovacic on the sidelines for tonight’s match.
Predicted Manchester City starting eleven
Stefan Ortega- Ortega is my pick to start tonight. Ederson hasn’t done anything wrong but I expect to see Ortega in goal.
Rico Lewis- I can’t see Walker starting tonight. If that proves to be the case I expect Lewis to line up at right-back.
Jahmai Simpson-Pusey- The youngster hasn’t put a foot wrong when he has started for Manchester City. I expect him to start based on City’s fitness issues at the back.
Nathan Ake- Ake needs minutes and I thought he performed well in the second half against Tottenham. If he starts, I doubt he’ll last the full 90, but he’s my pick to start tonight.
Josko Gvardiol- I can’t see Gvardiol not starting tonight. At some point, he’ll need a rest, but I don’t think City can afford to rest him tonight.
Matheus Nunes- Tonight’s match may be the opportunity for Nunes to impress in midfield. He has the game for it and now he needs an opportunity. Tonight’s game against Feyenoord could provide him with that chance.
Ilkay Gundogan- It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Gundogan start tonight. I think Bernardo will be saved for Sunday so I expect Gundogan to start in midfield.
Kevin De Bruyne- Manchester City need De Bruyne back firing. They may also need his presence in the starting lineup. He is an inspirational figure at Manchester City, and if he starts, it could inspire his team.
Phil Foden- Foden, like many of his teammates was below his best against Tottenham. City needs him firing, and hopefully, he can return to form tonight.
Jack Grealish- Manchester City have missed Grealish during his absence with injury. I think he’ll start tonight as he works his way back into the fold.
Erling Haaland- Tonight is a big night for City’s number 9. If he fires it could prove to be pivotal for Pep Guardiola’s side. I can’t see him not starting so it’s on him to take his chances tonight.