Manchester City will aim to secure their fourth consecutive victory in all competitions as they face Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Tuesday night. After a resounding 8-0 win over Salford in the FA Cup, Pep Guardiola’s side is regaining momentum, though injuries and transfer speculation continue to influence team selection.
Here’s how City could line up in a 4-1-4-1 formation:
Man City Predicted Lineup
Goalkeeper:
- Stefan Ortega: The German appears to have taken over as City’s first-choice goalkeeper, with Ederson now being used in cup competitions.
Defenders:
- RB: Rico Lewis: With Kyle Walker likely on his way out, Lewis is expected to continue his development as City’s starting right-back.
- CB: Manuel Akanji: The versatile Swiss defender will anchor the backline in the absence of John Stones and Ruben Dias.
- CB: Nathan Ake: A key figure in City’s defense, Ake’s availability is crucial given the team’s current injury woes.
- LB: Josko Gvardiol: After a mixed start to the season, Gvardiol should slot in at left-back, offering both defensive solidity and attacking support.
Midfield:
- DM: Mateo Kovacic: With Rodri unavailable, Kovacic will be tasked with shielding the defense and breaking up Brentford’s counter-attacks.
- RM: Savinho: The Brazilian winger is growing in confidence and could feature on the right, though he might switch flanks during the game.
- AM: Kevin De Bruyne: While not at his peak, De Bruyne remains a creative force capable of unlocking Brentford’s compact defense.
- AM: Phil Foden: Foden’s creativity and finesse will be pivotal in navigating Brentford’s deep defensive block.
- LM: Jeremy Doku: Fresh off a brace against Salford, Doku should retain his spot and provide pace and directness on the left.
Forward:
- ST: Erling Haaland: The Norwegian striker will lead the line, looking to replicate his dominant performance in the reverse fixture where he netted twice.
Key Talking Points
- Injury Concerns: City remain without key players like John Stones and Ruben Dias, leaving their defense stretched.
- Kyle Walker’s Future: With Guardiola confirming Walker’s desire to leave, Rico Lewis has a chance to solidify his position as the starting right-back.
- Savinho’s Emergence: The young Brazilian is beginning to make an impact and could be an important asset as City juggles multiple competitions.
Match Outlook
City’s recent form suggests they are beginning to find their stride after a rocky start to the season. Brentford, however, will look to exploit City’s vulnerabilities in defensive transition, especially with Rodri absent. Guardiola will expect his side to control possession and rely on the creativity of De Bruyne, Foden, and Doku to break down Brentford’s disciplined setup.
Prediction: Brentford 1-3 Man City.
