Pep Guardiola is anticipated to implement six alterations, including the inclusion of the 20-year-old star, in Manchester City’s probable starting lineup against Red Star Belgrade. The changes are likely due to City already securing the top spot in their Champions League group.
Given Ederson Moraes’s absence from Tuesday’s training session due to illness, Stefan Ortega is poised to start in goal against Red Star Belgrade, per our projected lineup. The club’s official website confirms Ortega’s spot in the traveling squad as Ederson is not included.
Rico Lewis might take up the right-back position, allowing Kyle Walker to rest. Similarly, John Stones could replace Ruben Dias as the team’s right-sided center-back after Stones’ late cameo in the Luton Town match.
With Pep Guardiola previously stating Nathan Ake’s inability to play frequently due to injury concerns, Manuel Akanji is expected to step in for him in the heart of the defense according to our projected Manchester City lineup for the Red Star Belgrade match.
Josko Gvardiol may retain his spot at left-back following a strong showing against Luton Town.
Rodri might be rested as a precaution due to his vital role in the team, with Mateo Kovacic possibly dropping deeper into the defensive midfield position. Matheus Nunes, who has appeared as a late substitute in recent games, could be in line for a starting role.
Bernardo Silva might also be spared to avoid potential injury risks, potentially allowing teenager Oscar Bobb to make his Champions League debut on the right wing, per our predicted Manchester City lineup for the Red Star Belgrade match.
Phil Foden, who performed well as a No. 10 against Luton Town, could have another opportunity to showcase his abilities in that role.
Likewise, Jack Grealish, scorer of a crucial goal against Hatters, is expected to start on the left flank.
With Erling Haaland’s potential return from injury looming on Thursday, according to Pep Guardiola, Julian Alvarez is likely to be the lone striker for the treble-winners at the Rajko Mitic Stadium.
The expected starting lineup for Manchester City against Red Star Belgrade could be as follows: Ortega, Lewis, Stones, Akanji, Gvardiol, Kovacic, Nunes, Bobb, Foden, Grealish, Alvarez.
