Man City Line-Up vs Wolves Predicted: Ederson Confirmed, Rodri Questionable
Manchester City kick off their Premier League campaign against Wolves at Molineux tonight, and Pep Guardiola’s starting XI has sparked plenty of speculation.
The City manager has reinforced his squad heavily over the summer. Debuts are expected. But Guardiola is juggling options. There’s almost as much talk about who misses out as who starts.
“Ederson will start in goal,” Guardiola confirmed ahead of the match, putting an end to speculation over the Brazilian’s future amid City’s interest in Gianluigi Donnarumma and the signing of James Trafford.
Rayan Ait-Nouri is certain to start at left-back. He could combine with Matheus Nunes on the opposite flank, forming a full-back pairing of familiar faces.
Ruben Dias is expected to lead the defence. With Josko Gvardiol sidelined, Manuel Akanji is likely to partner Dias. John Stones, meanwhile, has seen limited action in recent months.
Midfield presents a tricky puzzle. Rodri is fit enough to travel but starting him seems risky. Guardiola has stated the Spaniard “won’t be fit enough to play 90 minutes until after the September international break.” With Mateo Kovacic out, Nico Gonzalez looks set to operate in the number six role.
Tijjani Reijnders impressed in pre-season, scoring twice in just 45 minutes against Palermo, and appears likely to earn a starting spot. Rayan Cherki is another new signing who could start, while Omar Marmoush provides attacking options from the left.
Phil Foden missed the trip to Italy last week but is fit for tonight. He could complete the front three. Bernardo Silva, this season’s captain, may operate behind certain starter Erling Haaland.
Oscar Bobb made an impression against Palermo but may be limited to the bench. Jeremy Doku could also miss out. Savinho is injured, and Ilkay Gundogan is expected among the substitutes.
City fans will be keen to see how Guardiola’s evolving squad performs under pressure in the season opener.
