Man City Starting XI vs Everton: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup

Manchester City Face Everton Test Without Midfield General

Manchester City approach their Premier League meeting with Everton missing one of their most influential figures in Rodri. The Spaniard limped off early during the 1-0 win at Brentford before the international break and later confirmed he had suffered a hamstring issue. He subsequently withdrew from Spain duty for their World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Bulgaria, insisting it was only a minor problem, however this is another frustrating setback for the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, who spent much of last season recovering from a serious knee injury.

Pep Guardiola offered no encouragement when asked for an update at his pre-Everton press conference, saying, “No news. He is not ready for tomorrow. I don’t know when he will be back.” That admission places pressure on City’s midfield balance. Compatriot Nico Gonzalez stepped in at Brentford and could be tasked with anchoring the midfield again, particularly with Everton unable to call upon in-form loanee Jack Grealish, who cannot face his parent club.

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Kovacic Nearing Return

There is better news regarding Mateo Kovacic. Guardiola revealed the Croatian is close to his first club appearance of the campaign after recovering from an Achilles injury, having featured for Croatia against Gibraltar last weekend. “Maybe 50-60 minutes,” Guardiola said of Kovacic. “He needs quality moments, quality time and quality minutes. It’s important he is back step by step.”

Fresh Options Emerging

Omar Marmoush and summer signing Rayan Ait-Nouri are now back in training following their own fitness problems. Their availability could offer Guardiola additional flexibility across the forward and defensive lines. “They trained yesterday and they are much, much better,” Guardiola added. “They are close to a comeback.”

Haaland Ready to Resume Scoring Duties

While Rodri’s absence weakens City’s spine, there is reassurance in the presence of Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker avoided injury during the international break and his early return should prove valuable. With Premier League defences already wearied by his relentlessness, Everton will need exceptional discipline to subdue him.

Predicted Manchester City XI (4-1-4-1): Donnarumma, Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly, Nico, Savinho, Reijnders, Foden, Doku, Haaland