In the upcoming match between Manchester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers, all eyes will be on new signing Marc Guehi as he is set to make his debut for the team. Although he was unable to compete in Tuesday's Champions League fixture against Bodo/Glimt due to eligibility issues, the £20 million acquisition is anticipated to step onto the pitch at the Etihad Stadium this Saturday.
City has faced some defensive struggles lately, making Guehi’s presence especially timely and beneficial for manager Pep Guardiola. With key defenders Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and John Stones currently out with injuries, it’s expected that Guehi will team up with Abdukodir Khusanov in the backline following Max Alleyne's two costly mistakes in the previous game.
When asked about Guehi's potential impact, Guardiola expressed enthusiasm: "Yes. Really good [to have him]. Considering the absence of central defenders, it is really good. It will help us because Marc is exceptional." This highlights just how crucial Guehi's debut could be in stabilizing the defense.
Additionally, Matheus Nunes is uncertain for the game due to a virus, while Savinho, Nico Gonzalez, Mateo Kovacic, and Oscar Bobb are still recovering from their respective injuries. On a brighter note, Antoine Semenyo is expected to return after missing out on the last match, potentially partnering with Jeremy Doku on the wings. This duo will be pivotal as City strives to break a frustrating streak of four Premier League matches without a victory, aiming to apply pressure on league leaders Arsenal.
Erling Haaland, who has not scored in open play since the 3-0 triumph over West Ham before Christmas, will be leading the attack. He is eager to end this goal drought. Furthermore, Bernardo Silva is likely to make his return after serving a suspension during the midweek clash.
Guardiola praised the "exceptional" performances from Rayan Ait-Nouri and Nico O'Reilly, who provided vital width in the previous encounter, indicating the depth of talent available to him.
The predicted starting lineup for Manchester City is: Donnarumma; Ait-Nouri, Khusanov, Guehi, O’Reilly; Rodri, Silva; Semenyo, Cherki, Doku; Haaland.
In terms of injuries, the team will be without Gonzalez, Dias, Gvardiol, Stones, Savinho, Bobb, and Kovacic, while Nunes remains a doubt.
Match details: The game is scheduled to kick off at 3 PM GMT on Saturday, January 24, 2026, and will be held at the Etihad Stadium. However, fans in the UK should note that it won’t be broadcasted on television.
