Manchester City v Inter Milan: Predicted line-up and tactical preview and everything you need to know

As Manchester City prepares to kick off their 2024/2025 Champions League campaign, Pep Guardiola’s side faces the challenging task of taking on Inter Milan.

After a narrow 2-1 victory over Brentford in the Premier League, City will need to recalibrate and rise to the occasion against an equally formidable Inter Milan team, who recently drew 1-1 with Monza.

The clash between these two European giants promises to be a tactical masterclass. Pep Guardiola and Inter’s Simone Inzaghi are regarded as two of the most innovative tacticians in modern football, setting the stage for an intriguing battle on Wednesday.

Notably, this will be their second meeting, with their previous encounter taking place in last season’s Champions League final, where Manchester City triumphed 1-0 in Istanbul to claim the European crown.

This time, the Sky Blues will host the Italian side at the Etihad Stadium, with Guardiola expected to make several changes to the squad that triumphed over Brentford.

Predicted Line-Up and Key Changes

Manchester City’s ever-reliable Ederson Moraes is set to remain between the posts, having put in a stellar performance against Brentford, making key saves that secured City’s recent win. However, changes are expected elsewhere on the field.

One significant switch could come at right-back. Rico Lewis, who played as a left-back against Brentford, may return to his more familiar position, pushing Kyle Walker to the bench.

Josko Gvardiol, who was impressive off the bench in City’s last outing, could replace Walker and bring more solidity to the backline.

In central defense, Ruben Dias might reclaim his starting position after John Stones’ somewhat shaky performance against Brentford. Dias would likely partner with Manuel Akanji, who was rock solid in their previous game.

In midfield, Guardiola may opt for Rodri, who has been vital to stabilizing the team’s play, over Mateo Kovacic. Ilkay Gundogan, having just returned to the starting line-up, could find himself replaced by Bernardo Silva, who has accumulated more match fitness early in the season.

Kevin De Bruyne, a mainstay in Guardiola’s plans, is expected to continue in his playmaker role, orchestrating City’s attacks.

Further up the pitch, Erling Haaland—fresh off a brace against Brentford—will likely lead the line once again.

Jack Grealish, who has been a regular starter in recent games, could get another runout as Guardiola looks to monitor his form closely.

Manchester City’s predicted line-up for their Champions League opener against Inter Milan reflects a blend of tactical adjustments and consistency.

With players like Gvardiol, Rodri, and Bernardo Silva coming in, Guardiola seems focused on shoring up his team’s balance in both defense and attack. As always, with both City and Inter being led by two of football’s brightest minds, this encounter promises to be as strategic as it is thrilling.

Manchester City Predicted Line-Up vs Inter Milan:

Ederson; Lewis, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri, Bernardo Silva, De Bruyne; Savinho, Haaland, Grealish.

All eyes will be on the Etihad as these two teams face off once again, with Manchester City looking to assert their dominance in Europe once more.