Man City Predicted Lineup vs Everton – Premier League Boxing Day Clash

Manchester City will host Everton on Boxing Day, desperate to turn around a dreadful run of form that has seen them lose nine of their last 12 matches in all competitions. The reigning Premier League champions are far from their best, with injuries to key players like Ruben Dias and Rodri compounding their struggles.

Pep Guardiola’s side faces a resilient Everton team that has kept clean sheets against Arsenal and Chelsea recently. With City’s squad stretched thin, Guardiola will need to get creative to secure a much-needed victory.

Here’s the predicted lineup for Manchester City against Everton in a 3-2-4-1 formation.

Man City Predicted Lineup vs Everton (3-2-4-1)

Goalkeeper

GK: Stefan Ortega
With Ederson still doubtful, Ortega is expected to retain his place in goal. The German shot-stopper delivered a solid performance against Aston Villa, making several impressive saves despite City’s defeat.

Defenders

CB: Kyle Walker
Walker may reprise his role as a defensive sweeper in Guardiola’s back three. With John Stones and Ruben Dias unavailable, Walker’s experience and versatility will be crucial in keeping Everton’s counterattacks at bay.

CB: Manuel Akanji
Akanji has been a regular presence in City’s defense but struggled for support against Villa. While not as commanding as Dias, Akanji provides much-needed stability and passing ability in the heart of defense.

CB: Nathan Ake
Ake could return to the starting XI after recovering from injury. His composure and defensive awareness make him a more reliable option than Josko Gvardiol, who has struggled in recent weeks.

Midfield

DM: Rico Lewis
Lewis is likely to feature in Guardiola’s hybrid role, operating as a defensive midfielder in possession and dropping into a full-back position when defending. While the 20-year-old has had mixed performances, Guardiola continues to show faith in his potential.

DM: Mateo Kovačić
Kovačić will anchor the midfield in Rodri’s absence, offering defensive cover and ball progression. While he lacks Rodri’s dominance, the Croatian’s experience and tactical awareness make him City’s best option in this role.

Attackers

RM: Savinho
The Brazilian winger could return to the starting lineup after being benched in recent games. His pace and directness will be vital in breaking down Everton’s low defensive block.

CM: Kevin De Bruyne
De Bruyne, surprisingly unused against Villa, is expected to start. The Belgian playmaker’s creativity and leadership are critical as City looks to regain their attacking edge.

CM: Phil Foden
Foden ended his Premier League goal drought with a late strike against Villa but remains far from his best. Guardiola will hope the talented midfielder can rediscover his form and link up effectively with De Bruyne.

LM: Jeremy Doku
Doku’s speed and flair on the left flank could be key to unlocking Everton’s defense. The Belgian winger’s ability to beat defenders and create chances will be vital in a match where City may dominate possession.

Forward

ST: Erling Haaland
Haaland’s recent form has been uncharacteristically poor, with just one goal in his last six matches. The Norwegian striker will need better service from his teammates to break down Everton’s disciplined defense and rediscover his scoring touch.

Key Points for City

• Creativity Needed: With Everton likely to sit deep, City must rely on De Bruyne, Foden, and Doku to create opportunities for Haaland.
• Defensive Stability: The makeshift backline must avoid lapses in concentration to prevent Everton from capitalizing on counterattacks.
• Urgency in Attack: City must start strong to avoid frustration and capitalize on any early openings.

Predicted Starting XI in Full:

GK: Stefan Ortega
CBs: Kyle Walker, Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake
DMs: Rico Lewis, Mateo Kovačić
RWB: Savinho
CMs: Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden
LWB: Jeremy Doku
ST: Erling Haaland

With injuries and poor form weighing heavily on Manchester City, this Boxing Day clash is a must-win for Guardiola’s side. A victory against Everton could be the spark they need to revive their season.