City line-up against Tottenham confirms Trafford start

Manchester City host Tottenham this lunchtime with James Trafford set to start and Rodri back in the squad

City line-up against Tottenham confirms Trafford start and Rodri return

Manchester City name James Trafford in goal for the visit of Tottenham. The back line looks set to stay the same with Ruben Dias in the center and John Stones back after his return. Rodri and Phil Foden are back in the squad after missing the opening day win at Wolves, but it remains to be seen if Guardiola picks them in the starting XI. Ederson is available but Trafford impressed on his debut and could keep his place.

Midfield options include Nico Gonzalez as the holding midfielder with Rodri in the mix but not yet ready to start. Gonzalez could partner Tijjani Reijnders, who was outstanding last weekend. Up front Oscar Bobb continues on the right and Haaland leads the line. Doku and Marmoush battle for a wide role, with Foden back in contention for a first start of the season.

Trafford earning a starting nod signals City are willing to trust youth in a high pressure game. It also shows a rotation minded approach that tries to balance immediate results with long term development. The Rodri return adds balance to a crowded midfield even if the starting XI remains uncertain. Dias fresh on contract and the defense anchored by Stones and Ait-Nouri suggests City want continuity as they face a busy campaign.

This lineup view reveals Citys depth and strategic planning. It highlights how Guardiola weighs risk and reward in early fixtures and how different players impact the balance between attack and defence. The broader message is that City are leaning on depth rather than relying on a fixed core, a move that could pay off as the season unfolds.

Highlights

City eyes a steady start as depth becomes a defining asset