Manchester City XI vs Villarreal – Predicted lineup and team news

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·21 ottobre 2025

Manchester City XI vs Villarreal – Predicted lineup and team news

Manchester City travel to Villarreal on Tuesday night aiming to solidify their position in the Champions League group stage with a second victory.

Pep Guardiola’s side remain unbeaten in all competitions since August. Furthermore, the manager himself boasts an unbeaten personal record against the Spanish club across eight previous encounters. While City drew their last European away game in Monaco, their recent domestic form has been impressive, culminating in a dominant win over Everton.

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The team leads the way statistically in the Champions League for possession and passes in the opposition half. Consequently, they will expect to control proceedings again, despite a key midfield absence.

Manchester City team news

Pep Guardiola faces a significant selection headache in midfield tonight. Specifically, the team have ruled out key player Rodri with a hamstring injury. Abdukodir Khusanov also remains unavailable.

However, the manager has received a boost elsewhere. Rayan Cherki, Omar Marmoush, and Rayan Aït-Nouri have all returned to full fitness. Their availability provides valuable attacking options from the bench.

In Rodri’s absence, Nico González could get the nod to start in midfield once again. Up front, Erling Haaland will lead the line. The Norwegian striker possesses a phenomenal record against Spanish teams. In fact, he has scored eight goals in eight Champions League appearances against La Liga opposition.