Man City’s expected starting XI v Newcastle United: Pep Guardiola names six big changes
Pep Guardiola is expected to rotate his Manchester City starting XI for this afternoon’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United (kick-off 12:30pm).
City eased past Championship side Bristol City in midweek to progress into the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup. But the focus immediately turns back to the league, with Pep Guardiola’s side able to cut the gap on leaders Arsenal to two points with a victory over the Magpies.
Guardiola rested several first-team players against the Robins. The likes of Kyle Walker, Rodri, Ilkay Gundogan and Erling Haaland were allowed a night off at Ashton Gate, while Jack Grealish only played the final 20 minutes.
Here’s how City are expected to line-up against Newcastle, according to our sister title ManchesterWorld:
1. GK: Ederson
Has come under pressure in recent weeks but has played every league match this season.
2. RB: Kyle Walker
Not played in the last two and could be given the task of marking Allan Saint-Maximin.
3. CB: Manuel Akanji
John Stones and Aymeric Laporte aren’t expected to return, so the Swiss defender should keep his place in the team.
4. CB: Ruben Dias
Has been in impressive form and was nominated for the club’s February Player of the Month award.