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

Man City vs Villarreal: Guardiola’s Side Aim to Reassert European Authority

Manchester City return to Champions League action tonight with a clear objective: to rediscover the rhythm that defines them at their best. A trip to Spain awaits as Pep Guardiola’s men face Villarreal at the Estadio de la Ceramica, determined to make a statement after a frustrating 2-2 draw with Monaco on matchday two.

Cherki’s Moment to Shine

City’s attacking options continue to evolve, and all eyes are on Rayan Cherki, who could finally make his European debut for the club following his £30 million move from Lyon. The Frenchman’s early weeks in Manchester were disrupted by injury, yet his talent has not gone unnoticed by his manager. “He is one of the most talented players I have ever seen,” Guardiola said, underlining the creative spark Cherki brings to the squad.

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Guardiola rarely shies away from trusting youth, and Cherki’s versatility could prove valuable against a disciplined Villarreal side. City’s attack remains led by Erling Haaland, who rediscovered his lethal touch with a brace in the 2-0 victory over Everton at the weekend. The Norwegian remains central to Guardiola’s plans, having played the full 90 minutes and showing his sharpness ahead of this European test.

Defensive Balance and Key Decisions

Defensively, Guardiola faces his usual conundrum: how to balance control with resilience. Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has made an impressive start to his City career, is expected to continue in goal. John Stones could return to the backline after being deployed at right-back in Monaco, while Josko Gvardiol is also pushing for a start after being left on the bench against Everton. Nathan Ake, who started that match alongside Ruben Dias, may make way as Guardiola seeks a combination better suited to Villarreal’s quick transitions.

The injury list provides Guardiola with limited options. Rodri remains out with a hamstring issue, a significant absence in midfield, while Abdukhodir Khusanov and Rayan Ait-Nouri continue their recovery from ankle injuries. Despite these setbacks, City’s depth offers flexibility, and Guardiola is expected to use it intelligently.

Midfield Craft and Width Options

In the centre, Mateo Kovacic could anchor the midfield, with Phil Foden and Tijjani Reijnders likely operating ahead of him as dynamic eights. Foden’s creativity remains vital, whether centrally or drifting wide to stretch Villarreal’s compact shape. Jeremy Doku looks set to retain his place on the left flank, having offered pace and unpredictability in recent outings.

On the opposite side, Savinho featured against Everton, but Guardiola may rotate, with Bernardo Silva or Cherki potential options to start on the right. If Foden shifts wide, that could also alter City’s midfield rhythm, offering greater control in possession.

Expected Lineup and Match Outlook

Predicted Man City XI (4-1-4-1): Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Kovacic; Silva, Reijnders, Foden, Doku; Haaland.

Injured: Ait-Nouri, Khusanov, RodriKick-off: 8pm BST, Tuesday 21 October 2025Venue: Estadio de la Ceramica, VillarrealTV: TNT Sports 1