This Sunday, Manchester City will clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, aiming to secure three crucial points in the Premier League. Fresh off a convincing 4-0 victory against Liverpool in the FA Cup, the Mancunian side enters the match with plenty of confidence.
Pep Guardiola is likely to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation and is expected to make one alteration to his starting lineup. Gianluigi Donnarumma could start in goal, replacing James Trafford, who will move to the bench.
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Predicted 4-2-3-1 Lineup for Manchester City vs Chelsea
Defense
Gianluigi Donnarumma will take position between the posts as he aims to deliver a clean sheet away from home. Abdukodir Khusanov will partner Marc Guehi at the center of the City defense, striving to maintain a strong defensive structure.
On the flanks, Matheus Nunes will look to impress as the right-back, while Nico O’Reilly aims to make an impact on the left side. Both players must fulfill their defensive responsibilities before joining the attack.
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Nathan Ake will provide additional defensive support from the bench.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – APRIL 04: Antoine Semenyo of Manchester City celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Etihad Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Midfield
Rodri and Bernardo Silva will serve as the holding midfielders, looking to dominate the center of the pitch against their opponents.
Just ahead of them, the dynamic trio of Jeremy Doku, Rayan Cherki, and Antoine Semenyo will form the attacking midfield contingent for the Man City. They will need to connect effectively in order to create ample goal-scoring opportunities for their side.
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Meanwhile, Tijjani Reijnders and Nico Gonzalez will be on the bench, eager to make a difference in the second half if called upon.
Attack
Leading the line for Manchester City will be Erling Haaland, who is riding high on confidence after scoring a hat-trick against Liverpool. His performance will be crucial as City seeks to find the net.
Omar Marmoush will start on the bench and could be brought on to make an impact in the closing stages of the match if necessary.