Man Metropolis shuffle plans for Dortmund in Champions League showdown
Manchester Metropolis return to Champions League responsibility on the Etihad, internet hosting Borussia Dortmund in a gathering that guarantees tactical intrigue as a lot as star energy. Rotation is on Pep Guardiola’s thoughts after a demanding home outing, and with the knockout section looming, squad administration and rhythm take centre stage.
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Guardiola’s flexibility has been a theme all through this marketing campaign. The Catalan has shifted shapes fluidly, adapting to opponent constructions, whereas Niko Kovac maintains his unwavering three on the again system. With Man Metropolis repeatedly choosing a 4-1-4-1 setup when dealing with that again three, one other tweak seems probably.
Forward of kick off, Guardiola described the weekend match as “demanding”, hinting that a number of contemporary legs could possibly be launched in opposition to Dortmund. It’s a contest that issues, not only for factors, however for Manchester Metropolis’s pursuit of management in Europe, and Dortmund, for all their transition moments and quick breaks, arrive realizing it is a benchmark fixture.
Key choices in highlight
Some slots really feel untouchable. Gianluigi Donnarumma stays the immovable presence in aim, whereas Erling Haaland’s blistering productiveness continues to outline Metropolis’s attacking risk. Even in a facet stacked with creators and runners, the Norwegian stays probably the most dependable leading edge, and in opposition to his former membership, narrative and necessity align.
Picture: IMAGO
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Elsewhere, the choice debate seems extra fluid. Rayan Ait Nouri has eased again from damage and will reclaim a beginning function after involvement in opposition to Bournemouth and Swansea. That may enable Josko Gvardiol to return to central responsibility, the place his aggression and clear development set the tone for Metropolis’s deeper construct.
Rayan Cherki, vigorous and incisive in his latest outing in opposition to Bournemouth, stakes a robust declare to maintain his place on the best. Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva provide continuity and management throughout midfield strains, with Silva significantly influential in opposition to groups that press man to man, as Dortmund typically do when courageous.
Midfield selection shapes rhythm
Tijjani Reijnders has hit a difficult patch. With Rodri match once more, Guardiola might lean towards safety and tempo management. The Spaniard’s presence transforms Metropolis’s rhythm, but his minutes require cautious dealing with, suggesting a possible substitution plan reasonably than a full match burden. Nonetheless, Rodri’s return in a Champions League tie feels important.
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Mateo Kovacic stays the one confirmed absentee, nonetheless sidelined by a long run ankle drawback. That stability in availability provides Guardiola licence to rotate with out weakening construction.
Predicted Man Metropolis lineup vs Dortmund
Man Metropolis predicted XI 4-1-4-1: Donnarumma, Ait Nouri, Dias, Gvardiol, Nunes, Rodri, Silva, Doku, Foden, Cherki, Haaland
Injured: Kovacic
Kick off: 8pm BST, Wednesday 5 November 2025
Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Broadcast: TNT Sports activities 1