Manchester City will clash heads with Oxford United at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night hoping to retain their League Cup crown. The Citizens are expected to make a lot of changes for this encounter against the League One outfit with Pep Guardiola desperate to hand some of his regular first-team starters some rest with some high-profile matches looming on the horizon.
The Man City boss could opt to stick with his favoured 4-3-3 formation and might hand some of his promising youngsters a start versus Oxford. However, anything other than a victory would be a big shock for the City fans especially due to their team’s incredible squad depth.
4-3-3 Manchester City Predicted Lineup To Face Oxford United
Defence
The youngster, Arijanet Muric could make his first start in Guardiola’s first-team for this Carabao Cup against Oxford United. The Kosovan goalie has played second-fiddle to Ederson so far with Claudio Bravo currently sidelined with a serious injury. This could be his chance to showcase his talents in front of the City supporters when he takes his place in goal at the Etihad Stadium.
The defensive duo of John Stones and Vincent Kompany would operate at the centre of the Citizens backline after the pair started on the bench versus Cardiff City last weekend. Oleksandr Zinchenko might play as a makeshift left-back while Nicolas Otamendi starts at the right side of the City defence.
Midfield
The trio of Phil Foden, Brahim Díaz and Fabian Delph could make up City’s midfield on Tuesday. They will be responsible for retaining possession and establishing City’s dominance at the centre of the park.
Attack
Guardiola’s frontline might be comprised of David Silva, Gabriel Jesus and Riyad Mahrez. The trio started on the bench against the Bluebirds on Saturday and should be well-rested for this upcoming League Cup clash at home versus Oxford.
Jesus and Mahrez would be expected to get the goals for the home team in midweek while Silva acts as a creative force while operating in and around the Oxford penalty area.
