How Manchester City Might Line Up Against Manchester United

Manchester City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega is set to start in goal for Saturday’s FA Cup final against rivals Manchester United at Wembley Stadium.

Since joining Manchester City in 2022, Ortega has primarily played second fiddle to first-choice goalkeeper Ederson. However, Ortega regularly features in cup competitions under Pep Guardiola and is expected to start now that Ederson is sidelined with a fractured eye socket.

Captain Kyle Walker, who lifted Manchester City’s record fourth consecutive Premier League title last weekend after their 3-1 victory over West Ham United, is anticipated to retain his position at right-back. He will likely be joined by Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol in a four-man defense.

Midfield anchor Rodri, who holds the record for the longest unbeaten run in club football history (74 games), is expected to continue in midfield, potentially alongside Mateo Kovacic if Guardiola opts for an additional midfield presence.

Jeremy Doku, who impressed against West Ham, may retain his starting spot on the left flank. However, his position could be under threat from Kovacic, which would shift Player of the Season Phil Foden to a wide role. Foden, who has netted six goals in his last four starts against Manchester United, might then operate out wide.

Kevin De Bruyne is expected to continue in the number 10 role, with Foden occasionally moving centrally to link up with the Belgian. Bernardo Silva, who has scored all three of City’s goals in their last two FA Cup matches, is set to play on the right side of the attack.

Leading scorer Erling Haaland is likely to spearhead the attack for City. The Norwegian has scored 38 goals in 44 appearances across all competitions this season, including five goals in just two FA Cup games. He is one goal behind Ellis Simms and Sammie Szmodics (both with six) in the race for the FA Cup Golden Boot.

Manchester City’s possible starting lineup: Ortega; Walker, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri, Kovacic; Bernardo, De Bruyne, Foden; Haaland.