Manchester Citys Anticipated Lineup Against Bayer Leverkusen: Squad Changes Following Newcastle Loss
Manchester City Set to Recover Against Bayer Leverkusen
Manchester City is looking to recover from a recent loss in the Premier League as they prepare to host Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday evening.
A Historic Encounter
This matchup marks the first meeting between the two clubs, with the visitors hoping to pull off an unexpected victory at the Etihad Stadium. Leverkusen has recently climbed to third place in the Bundesliga, building momentum ahead of this clash.
City has faced challenges in away games recently, but their home performance has been formidable. After a strong start in this season’s Champions League, manager Pep Guardiola, who expressed feelings of embarrassment over his conduct following Saturday’s defeat, may use the game as a chance to rotate his squad.
Projected Lineup for Manchester City vs. Bayer Leverkusen (4-1-4-1)
Key Players:
-
GK: Gianluigi Donnarumma
Donnarumma is expected to remain in goal despite potential squad changes. -
RB: Abdukodir Khusanov
Khusanov was on track to secure the right-back position before injury derailed his plans. With Matheus Nunes having played there lately, Khusanov might return to the lineup. -
CB: Rúben Dias
After scoring unexpectedly on Saturday, Dias will likely lead the defense against Leverkusen this midweek. -
CB: Joško Gvardiol
Gvardiol’s engagement with the media prior to the match suggests he is poised to start. -
LB: Nico O’Reilly
With Rayan Aït-Nouri not fully trusted post-injury, O’Reilly is set to take the left-back role. -
DM: John Stones
Stones may step into a defensive midfield position, allowing for some rotation in the squad. -
RW: Oscar Bobb
Bobb struggled to make an impact last weekend but could be favored over experienced player Bernardo Silva. -
AM: Tijjani Reijnders
Recently overlooked by Guardiola, Reijnders is expected to be given a starting chance in this fixture. -
AM: Phil Foden
Foden, a central figure in the City’s attack, seeks to replicate his success from the previous match against Borussia Dortmund. -
LW: Omar Marmoush
After a slow start due to injuries, Marmoush is anticipated to play and face familiar adversaries. - ST: Erling Haaland
Despite his continued struggles against Newcastle, Haaland remains a key asset for scoring in the Champions League, trailing only five goals behind Sergio Agüero’s club record.
Anticipated Changes
The match will likely see significant changes from the squad that played at St. James’ Park, resulting in a fresh approach as City seeks to regain their form.