Man City XI vs Sunderland: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest for Premier League today | OneFootball

Jeremy Doku update as title contenders prepare for New Year’s Day clash at Stadium of Light

Manchester City could welcome back Jeremy Doku for tonight’s clash with Sunderland in the Premier League.

Rodri could get some minutes as a substitute too after returning to the City squad at Nottingham Forest last weekend.

Jeremy Doku has not played since the Champions League win at Real Madrid on December 10

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The Ballon d’Or winner has not played since the start of November and his return to fitness is a major boost for City in their title fight with Arsenal, who pulled five points clear at the top of the Premier League with a statement 4-1 victory over Aston Villa on Tuesday.

John Stones and Oscar Bobb remain unavailable for the visit to Wearside, however.

“Maybe Rodri can play a few minutes,” said Guardiola ahead of the Sunderland game. “We need it desperately. Doku, maybe. John and Oscar, no.”

Rayan Ait-Nouri and Omar Marmoush are still both away at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, while Mateo Kovacic is continuing his rehabilitation from an ankle injury.

Guardiola has used a settled City lineup in recent weeks but there could be a few changes amid a busy fixture schedule.

City are closing in on a deal for Antoine Semenyo but the Bournemouth winger has not been signed in time for the Sunderland game.

Predicted Man City XI (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Silva, Gonzalez, Reijnders; Cherki, Haaland, Foden

Injured: Kovacic, Stones, Bobb

Doubt: Doku

Unavailable: Ait-Nouri, Marmoush (AFCON)

Time and date: 8pm GMT on Thursday January 1, 2026

Venue: Stadium of Light, Sunderland

How to watch: Sky Sports