Haaland and Reijnders Set to Spearhead Man City's Attack Against Burnley
Manchester City showed no signs of distress during their midweek Carabao Cup match against Huddersfield Town, despite being transformed into a classic José Mourinho-style team at the Emirates the previous Sunday.
City wrapped up a demanding week by earning a point against title contenders Arsenal, and the opportunity to rest key players in midweek should provide renewed energy for Pep Guardiola's squad ahead of Saturday's Premier League encounter.
A resilient Burnley side awaits the Citizens, and judging by their performance against Liverpool a fortnight ago, the Clarets will make the home team fight tooth and nail for maximum points.
Here's how City might set up for Burnley's weekend visit.
Man City Predicted Lineup vs. Burnley (4-1-4-1)
GK: Gianluigi Donnarumma—The Italian goalkeeper was among several City regulars who received a midweek rest, making him a certain starter for Saturday's fixture.
RB: Matheus Nunes—With Abdukodir Khusanov still sidelined due to injury, Guardiola must decide between Nunes and Rico Lewis for the right-back position. While it's close, Nunes has been the recent favorite.
CB: Rúben Dias—City's premier defensive stalwart will face challenges in transition from the crafty Lyle Foster and pacey Jaidon Anthony.
CB: Joško Gvardiol—The Croatian center-back was absent from the Huddersfield trip during the week and will rejoin Dias in the heart of defense on Saturday.
LB: Nico O'Reilly—The promising City academy product, originally developed as a midfielder, continues as City's primary left-back option while Rayan Aït-Nouri recovers from injury.
DM: Rodri—The 2024 Ballon d'Or recipient has had a relatively subdued season start and predictably sat out Wednesday's match. Guardiola continues to carefully manage the Spanish playmaker's minutes.
RM: Savinho—The Brazilian found the net during the week and appears poised to extend his stay with the Citizens despite significant interest from Tottenham Hotspur. He's likely to feature on the right flank.
CM: Phil Foden—Greater responsibilities for Foden could unlock his potential this season, following a challenging 2024–25 campaign. Recent performances have shown encouraging improvement.
CM: Tijjani Reijnders—In a City side that may adopt a more transitional approach, the exceptional ball-carrying abilities of Reijnders become crucial. He impressed last Sunday and only made a substitute appearance midweek.
LM: Jérémy Doku—The Belgian winger was a constant attacking threat at the Emirates, suggesting Doku has elevated his performance level after an uneven beginning to his Manchester City journey.
ST: Erling Haaland—A back problem caused Haaland's early substitution against Arsenal, keeping him out of the Huddersfield trip. Nevertheless, the Norwegian striker is cleared for Saturday's action, making him an attractive 'Triple Captain' option for many.
