Manchester City s starting lineup against Tottenham Hotspur: Rodrifordon is absent, new players take on heavy responsibility

On the evening of August 23, the second round of the Premier League will usher in the focus match between Manchester City and Tottenham. Although he beat Wolves away in the first round with multiple main players absent, Guardiola's team still faces the challenge of a disorganized lineup. The shadow of the home defeat of Tottenham 0-4 last season has not yet dissipated, and this competition will become an important test for the Blue Moon's home debut in the new season.

Although Manchester City successfully took revenge at home late last season, the crushing defeat encountered at that time directly exposed the shortcomings of the team's tactical system, which eventually led to the team's experience of a season where all four were gone. To this end, Manchester City conducted a series of targeted signings in the summer of 2025, aiming to regain the Premier League championship trophy.

Opponent Tottenham Hotspur showed a new look after Thomas Frank took over, and his performance in the first round was also eye-catching. Faced with this difficult opponent, Manchester City is expected to send out the following lineup:

Goalkeeper: James Trafford. As Ederson is out of the game due to injury until the end of the transfer window, new goalkeeper Trafford will continue to guard the goal.

Right back: Mattus Nunes. Despite Rico Lewis' excellent performance in the first round, Guardiola may conduct a lineup rotation and Nunes is expected to return to the starting lineup.

Central defender: John Stones. Stones, who is in the contract and World Cup year, needs to continue playing opportunities to strive to be on the England team's World Cup squad next year.

Central defender: Ruben Dias. The Portuguese international, who has just renewed his contract for four years, will continue to be in the back, and his leadership is crucial to curbing Tottenham's rapid offense.

Leftback: Rayan Aitnuri. The Algerian international, who has transferred from Wolves, will become the first choice on the left, and his offensive ability will provide the team with width.

Midfielder: Bernardo Silva. The Portuguese core continues to play the role of midfield engine, and his experience will be the key to the team's offensive and defensive transformation.

Midfielder: Nico Gonzalez. As Rodri is still recovering from a serious cruciate ligament injury and has muscle problems, Spanish new player Nico will play in the defensive midfielder.

Midfielder: Teji Ryandes. The Dutch international made his debut and conquered fans, and will continue to shoulder the heavy responsibility of midfield organization in this game.

Right winger: Oscar Bob. Norwegian genius immediately contributed his highlight performance after returning from injury, and he will become Manchester City's main attacker on the right.

Center: Ellin Haaland. Norwegian Divine Fighter, who scored twice in the first round, is determined to regain the Golden Boot, but he failed to score in both home games against Tottenham.

Left winger: Omar Marmush. The Egyptian international showed amazing potential in the second half of last season, and his long-range shooting ability will be an important weapon to crack intensive defense.