Manchester City host Brighton in the Carabao Cup fourth round tonight, with the Seagulls also returning to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday for a Premier League meeting. Enzo Maresca confirmed in his Tuesday press conference that he would be making changes between the two games, and the club's second-choice side is likely to take the field for the cup tie.
Defensive reshuffle and goalkeeper change
Second-choice goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli will start after Gianluigi Donnarumma was given a three-day holiday by Maresca. Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias have also been granted time off, confirming changes in defence from the weekend.
Rico Lewis came off the bench against Aston Villa and Maresca praised his display on Tuesday. He could start at right-back, with Abdukodir Khusanov pushed into the centre to partner Vitor Reis. The duo played alongside each other in the last round of this competition. Nico O'Reilly completes the back four.
Midfield and attacking options
Elliot Anderson is also absent this evening, so a return to the starting XI for Ayyoub Bouaddi seems inevitable. Enzo Fernandez could also be afforded a rest, so long as Mateo Kovacic is fit enough to start.
In attacking midfield, it is difficult to predict whether Phil Foden or Rayan Cherki will be picked. Both players played a half against Villa at the weekend. Both are expected to feature against Brighton this week, with Foden backed to get the nod for the starting spot.
On the left wing, Allan could be given another chance to shine. He was electric against AEK Athens and impressed during the clash with Norwich too. On the opposite flank, Ryan McAidoo deserves a start after a positive performance against Villa at the weekend.
Haaland's replacement up front
Leading the line in Erling Haaland's absence, as the striker enjoys his short break, could be Floyd Samba. The teenager has earned the trust of Maresca, and starting him against Brighton feels logical.
