Manchester City set to rest key man against Newcastle United amid four changes by Pep Guardiola
Manchester City are looking to bounce back from their Champions League semi-final exit to Real Madrid when they host Newcastle United later this afternoon.
Pep Guardiola’s side fell at the last four stage following a dramatic 6-5 aggregate loss over the La Liga giants, meaning their their only prospect of winning silverware this season can come in the Premier League.
Guardiola will be wary of the physical toll Wednesday’s game could have given they travelled to Madrid and also played 120 minutes.
It’s for that reason the City boss may look to rotate his squad for today’s encounter and bring in some of the players who started on the bench at the Bernabeu.
Either way, from Newcastle’s point of view, it is hoped City’s misery extends into the weekend and they can avoid being on the end of a Guardiola masterclass.
Here’s how the Man City are predicted to line-up against Newcastle - with help from ManchesterWorld’s Michael Plant.
1. Ederson
Came in for a little criticism in midweek, but is a certainty to start barring any last-minute injury.
2. Joao Cancelo
Walker’s injury means he will likely miss out and Cancelo starts at right-back.
3. Ruben Dias
Had a night to forget in Madrid, and could be rotated after returning to the team recently from a hamstring injury. But the lack of defensive options could see Dias start.
4. Aymeric Laporte
John Stones is still expected to be out, so Laporte should start at centre-back.