Manchester City face Chelsea in a pivotal Premier League clash on January 25, 2025, with both teams vying for a top-four spot. This article breaks down Pep Guardiola’s Man City predicted lineup vs Chelsea, analyzing injury concerns, tactical adjustments, and potential debutants.
⏳ Next Match
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) January 24, 2025
⚽ Manchester City vs Chelsea
📅 Saturday, January 25, 2025
⏰ 17:30 GMT – 18:30 CET
🏆 Premier League (Round 23)
🏟️ Venue: Etihad Stadium
⛳ Referee: John Brooks#ManchesterCity_Chelsea #PremierLeague #ManchesterCity #Chelsea #MCICHE #PL pic.twitter.com/hERfpyh8Yj
Injury Updates & Squad News
Defensive Reshuffle
Pep Guardiola faces a crisis at center-back, with Ruben Dias (adductor) and Nathan Aké (unspecified) ruled out. John Stones is expected to partner Manuel Akanji, while Josko Gvardiol retains his left-back role. New signings Abdukodir Khusanov (Lens) and Vitor Reis (Palmeiras) are in contention for debuts if needed.
Midfield Adjustments
Rodri’s long-term ACL absence continues to haunt City’s midfield stability. Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gündogan are likely to anchor the double pivot, with Kevin De Bruyne operating in an advanced role. Mateo Kovačić, despite a shaky UCL performance, could retain his place against his former club.
Attack: Foden & Haaland Lead Charge
Phil Foden (6 goals in 6 games) and Erling Haaland (17 league goals) remain pivotal. Savinho is favored over Jack Grealish on the left, while new signing Omar Marmoush offers bench depth.
Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1)
- GK: Stefan Ortega (replaces Ederson after PSG errors)
- RB: Rico Lewis (Kyle Walker’s AC Milan move finalized)
- CB: John Stones & Manuel Akanji
- LB: Josko Gvardiol
- CM: Bernardo Silva & Ilkay Gündogan
- RW: Phil Foden | AM: Kevin De Bruyne | LW: Savinho
- ST: Erling Haaland
Tactical Approach & Key Players
Guardiola’s side will prioritize possession to exploit Chelsea’s defensive gaps. Foden’s movement on the right and De Bruyne’s creativity are critical, while Haaland aims to extend his Golden Boot lead. Defensively, City must contain Cole Palmer, Chelsea’s top scorer (14 goals), who thrives in transitional play.
Match Context: Chelsea’s Threat
Chelsea, buoyed by their 3-1 win over Wolves, could start Levi Colwill and Enzo Fernández if fit. However, their away form remains shaky, with just one win in five league games. City’s home advantage and recent dominance in this fixture (8 wins in last 10 H2Hs) tilt the scales.
