Manchester City will face Chelsea in their final friendly of their pre-season tour of the USA. Man City recently drew 2-2 with Barcelona and will be eager to secure their first victory of the pre-season as the Premier League season approaches. Pep Guardiola’s men will take on Chelsea tomorrow at 22:30 BST at the Ohio Stadium in Columbus.
Manchester City vs Chelsea – Team News
Manchester City will have the same squad available as they did against Barcelona, with many of their senior players still absent due to their involvement in the UEFA Euros or Copa America, resulting in extended vacations. This situation has opened the door for several youngsters, including James McAtee, Maximo Perrone, and Nico O’Reilly, who have all featured prominently in City’s pre-season fixtures and will likely see more game time against Chelsea.
Man City vs Chelsea – Match Preview
Chelsea have a new manager in Enzo Maresca who will be desperate to bring back success to the London side following their recent decline despite heavy investment in the transfer market
Chelsea have had a mixed pre-season tour so far. The Blues started with a 2-2 draw against lower-tier side Wrexham, followed by a heavy 4-1 defeat to Celtic. However, they bounced back with a 3-0 win over Club America, which would have restored some confidence ahead of their clash with City.
Guardiola, on the other hand, will be hoping to secure a much-needed victory to boost morale ahead of their next game against rivals Manchester United in the Community Shield. His squad showed resilience in the draw against Barcelona but has faced defensive challenges due to the absence of key players, forcing the manager to field a makeshift backline.
Manchester City Predicted Lineup vs Chelsea
Star striker Erling Haaland is expected to miss out following injury concerns. Guardiola might opt for a false nine system, possibly deploying Jack Grealish in that role, or he could give young forward Micah Hamilton a chance to impress. Kalvin Phillips may continue as centre back after an impressive game last time out.
Youngsters Oscar Bobb and Nico O’Reilly will also be hoping to build on his solid pre-season performances so far as City aim to end their US tour with a much needed victory.
Man City Predicted Lineup vs Chelsea: Ederson; Lewis, Phillips, Doyle, Gvardiol; Kovacic, O’Reilly; Bobb, McAtee, Grealish; Hamilton.
