Man City XI vs Sheff Utd: Doku debut, predicted lineup and team news

Guardiola will be absent for the game at Bramall Lane, with his assistant Juanma Lillo deputising for him.

Bernardo Silva is expected to be fit and available after returning to training following illness. There are concerns over Manuel Akanji and Phil Foden’s fitness, while Erling Haaland could be rested.

Lillo said on Silva: “Perhaps it’s a question more for the doctor but he has trained fully normal. I don’t think he’s ill at all and is good to go.”

Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones remain sidelined but Jeremy Doku could be parachuted straight into the team for a debut.

The Belgian winger joined for £55million during the week to replace Riyad Mahrez, who left for Al-Ahli earlier in the summer, and assistant boss Lillo has hinted that he will play at Bramall Lane.

“The team is at a good level,” said the assistant coach. “You’ve seen him, he has specific qualities. He can definitely help.”

Predicted Man City XI: Ederson; Walker, Ake, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri, Kovacic; Silva, Alvarez, Grealish; Haaland

Injuries: De Bruyne, Stones

Doubts: None

Time and date: 2pm BST, Sunday August 27, 2023

Venue: Bramall Lane