Manchester City will host RB Leipzig on Wednesday for their opening match of the Champions League campaign. This will be the first time these two teams will meet in a competitive fixture, and it promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Pep Guardiola’s side will be looking to get off to a strong start in the competition and continue the impressive form that saw them win the Premier League last season. Meanwhile, Leipzig will be hoping to cause an upset and start their campaign with a bang.
Projected Lineups:
Manchester City: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Laporte, Cancelo; Rodri, Gundogan, Silva; Mahrez, Jesus, Foden.
RB Leipzig: Gulacsi; Klostermann, Orban, Simakan, Angelino; Adams, Laimer, Haidara; Olmo, Silva, Nkunku.
Phil Foden is expected to start in the attacking midfield position, and he could be the key to unlocking the Leipzig defence. The 21-year-old has been in sensational form this season, scoring three goals and providing one assist in just four games. Foden’s creativity, vision and ability to score goals will be vital for City if they want to get past Leipzig.
Meanwhile, Leipzig will be looking to their attacking trio of Christopher Nkunku, Andre Silva and Dani Olmo to cause problems for the Manchester City defence. The trio has combined for six goals already this season, and they will pose a significant threat to the City backline.
Both sides boast an excellent array of attacking talents, and it could come down to which team is more clinical in front of goal. Guardiola will also be hoping that his defence can keep Leipzig’s attackers at bay and maintain a clean sheet.
Injury concerns:
Manchester City will be without the services of striker Gabriel Jesus, who is out with a foot injury. Meanwhile, Leipzig will be without midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai, who is sidelined with a groin injury.
Final Thoughts:
Manchester City will start this match as favourites, but they know they can’t take Leipzig lightly. The German side reached the semi-finals of the competition in 2019/20 and will pose a significant challenge for City. However, Guardiola’s side has the talent and the depth to secure three points in their opening match of the Champions League. Foden’s performance will be crucial for City, and if he can replicate his recent form, it could be a long night for Leipzig.
