Man City Starting XI vs Sunderland: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Manchester City Gear Up For Sunderland Test

Manchester City return to Premier League duty with their meeting against Sunderland shaping into a significant examination of rhythm, resilience and rotation. The champions remain without Rodri, whose prolonged hamstring issue deprives City of their midfield metronome at a moment when the calendar demands composure. Pep Guardiola has already ruled out his 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, stating that “he will not be available for the Black Cats’ visit.”

Rodri Absence Shapes City’s Midfield

The Spaniard’s year has been defined by setbacks, from the anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered against Arsenal to this persistent hamstring problem that comes with a testing Champions League clash with Real Madrid on the horizon. His attempted return at the Club World Cup offered promise but the recurrence of discomfort has kept City cautious.

In Rodri’s stead, Nico Gonzalez is again expected to anchor the midfield, supported by the familiar guile of Bernardo Silva and the in-form Tijjani Reijnders, whose strike at Craven Cottage contributed to that extraordinary 5-4 win against Fulham.

Defensive Questions After Fulham Thriller

Manchester City’s nine-goal spectacle at Craven Cottage may have delivered entertainment, but it also exposed vulnerabilities that Sunderland will hope to exploit. Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias may partner once more, although John Stones and Nathan Ake remain viable alternatives. Guardiola also holds trust in Abdukodir Khusanov as an option at right-back, valuing his natural central defensive instincts.

Matheus Nunes continues to impress on the opposite flank, while Nico O’Reilly has grown into the left-back role, keeping Rayan Ait-Nouri out of the side for now. Gianluigi Donnarumma is set to retain his place in goal.

Attacking Threats Driving City Forward

City’s attacking options remain formidable. Phil Foden, revitalised on the right, looks sharp and decisive again, while Jeremy Doku’s goal at Fulham adds further threat. Erling Haaland leads the line after reaching the landmark of 100 Premier League goals, an extraordinary return that underscores his importance as Sunderland arrive at the Etihad Stadium.

With Manchester City aiming to maintain pressure at the top and Sunderland fighting for vital points, today’s fixture promises tension, quality and narrative. Kick off comes at 3pm GMT at the Etihad Stadium, a stage ready for another high stakes chapter in City’s title pursuit.