Manchester City will begin their FIFA Club World Cup journey tomorrow, and all eyes are on the European champions as they step onto the global stage following a headline-grabbing summer transfer window.
The Premier League giants have reinforced their squad with significant additions, particularly in midfield. This tournament marks a new chapter for City, as they prepare to compete without Kevin De Bruyne in a major competition for the first time in nearly a decade.
Despite his absence, the club’s recent signings Rayan Aït-Nouri, Tijjani Reijnders, and Rayan Cherki—have injected fresh energy and depth into Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Manchester City are heading into the tournament as one of the clear favorites, and expectations are high as they prepare to face Moroccan champions Wydad Casablanca in their opening match.
Here’s a look at the possible starting lineup Guardiola might deploy for tomorrow’s clash:
Goalkeeper
31. Ederson
The Brazilian remains City’s undisputed No. 1. With his unrivaled passing range and calm under pressure, Ederson will once again be key to launching attacks from the back.
Defenders (Back Four)
27. Matheus Nunes – A surprising choice at right-back, Nunes may be adapting to a more hybrid role, blending midfield traits with wide defensive duties.
3. Rúben Dias – The rock at the heart of the defense. Dias offers leadership, composure, and aerial dominance.
24. Joško Gvardiol – The Croatian is evolving into a top-tier centre-back. His ability to progress the ball fits perfectly with City’s style.
21. Rayan Aït-Nouri – A possible new signing, the Algerian full-back brings flair and aggression. Known for his dribbling and forward runs, Aït-Nouri could provide the width Guardiola craves on the left flank.
Midfield Double Pivot
4. Tijjani Reijnders – A major addition from AC Milan, Reijnders is a modern, box-to-box midfielder. His energy and vision will be key to maintaining tempo and connecting the lines.
16. Rodri – The midfield general. City’s most consistent performer in recent years, Rodri remains the brain of the operation, shielding the defense while dictating play.
Attacking Trio (Behind the Striker)
20. Bernardo Silva – As creative and intelligent as ever, Bernardo offers unpredictability and control. Whether drifting wide or dropping deep, he remains crucial.
29. Rayan Cherki – The French starlet is one of Europe’s most exciting prospects. If he breaks into this City side, it will be for his technique, flair, and ability to unlock defenses with a moment of magic.
7. Omar Marmoush – The Egyptian winger has impressed with Frankfurt and brings pace, work rate, and a direct threat from the right flank.
Striker
9. Erling Haaland
No surprises here. The Norwegian machine continues to be City’s ultimate weapon. With better service and wider support, expect another monstrous goal tally from Haaland.
Tactical Insight:
This lineup shows signs of evolution in City’s play style:
More natural width from Marmoush and Aït-Nouri Versatility with Nunes possibly inverting into midfield Reijnders adding more dynamism alongside Rodri Cherki’s inclusion hints at a shift toward creativity and youth in the central role
This potential Manchester City XI isn’t just about maintaining dominanceit’s about future-proofing the team. With experienced leaders like Dias and Rodri anchoring the squad, and young flair players like Cherki and Marmoush joining the mix, City might just be entering a new tactical phase.
Whether this team will be as ruthless as the treble-winners of 2023 remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Citizens are cooking up something fresh at the Etihad.
