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

Man City welcome Brentford with cup focus sharpened

Man City return to the Etihad on Wednesday evening with silverware firmly in mind, as Brentford arrive for a Carabao Cup quarter final carrying both hope and uncertainty. December has often been the month when Pep Guardiola’s sides begin to impose a sense of inevitability on domestic competitions, and recent form suggests this familiar rhythm is beginning to stir again.

Five straight wins in all competitions have restored fluency and confidence, while the historical backdrop also favours the hosts. Man City remain unbeaten in their last five meetings with Brentford, a quiet dominance that speaks to control rather than spectacle. Yet knockout football rarely follows established patterns, particularly when the reward is a semi final place.

Guardiola rotation plans under scrutiny

Guardiola is expected to adjust his side, balancing opportunity with the demands of a crowded schedule. The Carabao Cup has long served as a platform for fringe players and emerging talents, and this tie should be no different. James Trafford is pushing for a rare start in goal, while Oscar Bobb and Savinho are both likely to see increased responsibility in attacking areas.

There are unavoidable absences. Omar Marmoush and Rayan Ait Nouri have departed for the Africa Cup of Nations, removing depth and limiting tactical flexibility. Marmoush’s absence in particular leaves Erling Haaland as the only recognised forward, reducing the scope for rest even with rotation elsewhere.

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Jeremy Doku remains sidelined after missing the weekend win at Crystal Palace with a leg injury and will be unavailable for a further fortnight. Mateo Kovacic and John Stones also continue their recovery, leaving Guardiola to reshape his midfield and defensive balance accordingly.

Brentford chase rare opportunity

For Brentford, this match represents more than progression in a domestic cup. The club have never lifted a major trophy, and a place in the semi finals would mark a significant moment in their modern history. However, momentum is not firmly on their side. The Bees arrive winless in three matches, searching for sharpness and clarity at a demanding stage of the season.

Cup football has often rewarded Brentford’s organisation and resilience, qualities that will again be required. Their challenge lies in managing long spells without the ball, while remaining brave enough to test Man City when opportunities arise. Discipline, both tactical and emotional, will be central to any hopes of an upset.

Predicted lineup

Man City are likely to line up with a blend of experience and youthful energy, trusting structure and familiarity to carry them through.

Predicted XI: Trafford, Khusanov, Dias, Ake, O’Reilly, Nico, Reijnders, Silva, Bobb, Savinho, Haaland.