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

Manchester City seek timely reinforcements at Sunderland

Manchester City travel to the Stadium of Light on New Year’s Day with momentum to rebuild and a title race tightening by the week. The visit to Sunderland arrives at a pivotal moment in the Premier League season, with Pep Guardiola cautiously optimistic over the return of key personnel as City attempt to reel in Arsenal at the summit.

Jeremy Doku edging closer to return

Jeremy Doku could make his long awaited comeback after missing Manchester City’s last four matches in all competitions with a leg injury. The Belgian winger has been sidelined since early December but is back in contention, albeit likely from the bench. Guardiola is expected to manage his minutes carefully, particularly with Rayan Cherki and Phil Foden thriving in advanced roles either side of Erling Haaland.

Photo: IMAGO

Doku’s explosiveness offers City a different attacking dynamic, especially against a Sunderland side expected to defend deep and counter quickly. His possible involvement adds intrigue, even if caution remains the watchword.

Rodri boost amid title pressure

Rodri’s return to the matchday squad at Nottingham Forest last weekend was a significant step, and the Ballon d’Or winner may now see limited action on Wearside. His absence since early November has been keenly felt, particularly with Arsenal five points clear after a commanding 4-1 win over Aston Villa.

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

The City manager’s words underline both urgency and restraint as fixtures accumulate.

Squad absences and selection balance

John Stones and Oscar Bobb remain unavailable, while Mateo Kovacic continues his rehabilitation from an ankle problem. Rayan Ait-Nouri and Omar Marmoush are still away at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Guardiola has largely trusted a settled Manchester City lineup in recent weeks, though rotation remains possible.

City are also closing in on a deal for Antoine Semenyo, but the Bournemouth winger will not feature against Sunderland.

Match details and prediction context

Predicted Man City XI, Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Silva, Gonzalez, Reijnders; Cherki, Haaland, Foden. Kick off is 8pm GMT on Thursday January 1, 2026, live on Sky Sports, with Sunderland aiming to test City’s depth and resolve.