Man City Predicted Line-up vs Leyton Orient: Starting XI, Injury Latest – Whoʼs in & Whoʼs out?

Manchester City head to Brisbane Road on Saturday for their FA Cup fourth-round clash with Leyton Orient, knowing that all eyes are already on Tuesday’s Champions League blockbuster against Real Madrid. Pep Guardiola is expected to mix things up, balancing rotation with the need to bounce back after the 5-1 humiliation against Arsenal.

With a hectic February schedule ahead, Guardiola will likely rest key players while giving fringe names and new signings a chance to impress. Here’s how City could line up.

Goalkeeper & Defence: Ortega Retains Spot, Khusanov in Line for Start

Ederson remains a doubt, so Stefan Ortega is expected to continue in goal despite a shaky outing against Arsenal. Defensive injuries and rotation make this an opportunity for fresh faces. With Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, and John Stones unlikely to be risked, Guardiola could turn to Manuel Akanji as the senior figure at the back.

New January signing Abdukodir Khusanov could get his second start alongside Akanji, offering a blend of youth and experience. At full-back, Rico Lewis should get the nod on the right, while Nico O’Reilly—who played against Salford City in the previous round—could step in at left-back to allow Josko Gvardiol some rest.

📝 Predicted Defence: Ortega; Lewis, Akanji, Khusanov, O’Reilly

Midfield: Gundogan to Provide Leadership, McAtee and Grealish Add Creativity

Guardiola is unlikely to throw Nico González straight into the starting XI just days after arriving from Porto, but he could feature from the bench. Instead, Ilkay Gündogan is expected to provide leadership, while James McAtee—who impressed against Salford—deserves another chance.

With Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, and Bernardo Silva likely reserved for Madrid, Jack Grealish could operate centrally, as he did in round three, bringing dynamism and creativity.

📝 Predicted Midfield: Gündogan, McAtee, Grealish

Attack: Marmoush to Make First Start, Doku’s Fitness a Key Factor

Erling Haaland is expected to be rested for Madrid, so Divin Mubama could lead the line. Omar Marmoush, City’s £63m signing from Eintracht Frankfurt, is in line to make his full debut and will be keen to impress.

Jeremy Doku’s availability remains uncertain, but if fit, he could complete the attack. Otherwise, Savinho could step in to showcase his talent.

📝 Predicted Attack: Marmoush, Mubama, Doku (or Savinho)

Final Predicted XI (4-3-3):

Ortega; Lewis, Akanji, Khusanov, O’Reilly; Gündogan, McAtee, Grealish; Marmoush, Mubama, Doku (or Savinho)

With rotation inevitable and Real Madrid looming, this game offers a crucial test for City’s depth. Guardiola will hope his fresh faces deliver while ensuring his key players are primed for Europe’s biggest stage.