Attention turns to the knockout stages of the Champions League as Premier League sides are back in action. This Manchester City predicted lineup aims to figure out what setup Pep Guardiola will utilise when his side takes on RB Leipzig in the first leg of their tie.
Manchester City Predicted Lineup vs RB Leipzig in Champions League Tie
How Manchester City Have Lined Up Recently
Ederson has remained the consistent number-one option between the sticks, in front of him has usually been a back three with Kyla Walker, Ruben Dias and Aymeric Laporte. Bernardo Silva and Rodri have operated as the defensive midfield pairing when the 3-2-4-1 setup has been used.
Erling Haaland has been leading the line with Jack Grealish, Phil Foden, Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne operating behind him.
Manchester City Recent Form and Tactics
After a long spell using the 4-3-3 setup, we’ve seen a lot of experimentation from Guardiola. He has opted for a 3-2-4-1 lineup in recent matches to mixed success. He has also tested out the 4-1-4-1 and 4-4-2 formations. With three wins from his last five, the tactical flexibility seems to have had the desired impact.
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The fluidity in formation makes this side tough to prepare for, especially as they can and do shift tactics when possession changes hands.
Manchester City Absences to Consider
John Stones is the only injured player for the Citizens, despite that he is not their only absentee. Aymeric Laporte and Kevin De Bruyne are not in the squad for this match.
Manchester City Predicted Lineup
It is expected that the 3-2-4-1 makes its return with the following personnel:
GK – Ederson
CB – Nathan Ake
CB – Ruben Dias
CB – Kyle Walker
DM – Rodri
DM – Bernardo Silva
AM – Riyad Mahrez
AM – Ilkay Gundogan
AM – Phil Foden
AM – Jack Grealish
AT – Erling Haaland
