Cherki Injury Cloud Hangs Over Man City as Newcastle Clash Looms—Team News & Predicted XI
Manchester City's collapse in the second half in north London has given Arsenal a commanding six-point advantage at the summit of the Premier League standings, making it unlikely that Pep Guardiola's squad will produce one of their characteristic winning streaks.
Therefore, it would be prudent for the Spanish manager to focus on achieving glory in the domestic cup competitions during what could potentially be his concluding campaign with the Citizens.
His squad stands on the verge of reaching a Wembley showpiece, yet their tendency to surrender leads this campaign suggests Newcastle United, trailing 2–0 from the opening encounter, might sense an opportunity in this Carabao Cup semi-final clash, despite their dismal history at the Etihad Stadium.
Match Snapshot
Match Snapshot
Team News
Team News
There have been positive and negative developments regarding injuries ahead of Wednesday's encounter. Although Rúben Dias has resumed training and could soon rejoin the matchday roster following a month-long absence, Rayan Cherki sustained an injury against Tottenham Hotspur and remains questionable.
Marc Guéhi is also unavailable since his transfer was completed after the first leg, while City continue to miss Mateo Kovačić, Savinho, Joško Gvardiol and John Stones.
Guardiola has stated that this fixture arrives too early for Jérémy Doku's comeback.
Man City Predicted Lineup vs. Tottenham (4-2-2-2)
Man City Predicted Lineup vs. Tottenham (4-2-2-2)
GK: James Trafford—Trafford was between the posts for the opening leg, so Guardiola should place his faith in the English keeper once more on Wednesday evening.
RB: Rico Lewis—Lewis has seen limited action in 2026, but an opening could present itself here. The adaptable defender will be expected to advance forward and provide width to support City's effective central play.
CB: Abdukodir Khusanov—Khusanov's pace in recovery is crucial for City's advanced defensive setup, and his place in the starting eleven will persist against the Magpies.
CB: Nathan Aké—Guéhi's unavailability has created space for Aké to return to the starting lineup.
LB: Nico O'Reilly—Guardiola has utilized O'Reilly in central areas recently, but he might return to his breakthrough position for this midweek fixture.
CM: Nico González—Rodri's playing time needs careful management, particularly given his inconsistent recent performances, and González could earn a start following his injury recovery. The Spanish midfielder excelled during autumn and was outstanding against Newcastle at the Etihad in the previous campaign.
CM: Bernardo Silva—The veteran midfielder appeared exhausted by Sunday's match conclusion, but you can be certain Silva will be prepared and eager just 72 hours afterward.
AM: Phil Foden—Cherki's emergence has somewhat overshadowed Foden, though the English talent began the season impressively. He'll return to the starting eleven after playing a limited role at the weekend.
AM: Rayan Cherki—His injury didn't seem severe, and Guardiola hasn't excluded the French creator from consideration. Cherki has been exceptional in recent matches, and he'll be eager to participate if he's overcome the setback.
ST: Antoine Semenyo—Unlike Guéhi, Semenyo, to Eddie Howe's frustration, remains available for selection, and he's already influenced the semi-final significantly. The January signing found the net first at St. James's Park last month.
ST: Erling Haaland—Despite his clever finish against Galatasaray, Haaland has appeared unsettled in 2026. He might be missing Doku, who provided the assist for his recent goal. The Belgian has been inconsistently available due to fitness concerns.