City arrive in south London off the back of an impressive midweek Champions League victory over Real Madrid, having already swept aside Sunderland in domestic action. With confidence high and performances stabilising, the focus now turns to managing minutes while maintaining rhythm against a Crystal Palace side enjoying an excellent campaign under Oliver Glasner.
Man City team news and injury latest
Rodri remains the most significant absentee. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner has endured a frustrating spell on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring injury in early October. His brief return against Bournemouth proved premature, and City have since adopted a cautious approach to avoid further complications following his long absence last season due to an ACL injury.
Guardiola has repeatedly stressed that Rodri’s return will not be rushed, confirming that while the midfielder is progressing, he is still weeks away from being match-ready. He was again absent from the wins over Sunderland and Real Madrid, though there is no suggestion of a setback.
Mateo Kovacic also remains unavailable as he continues to recover from a long-term ankle issue, limiting Guardiola’s options in central midfield. John Stones is expected to miss this weekend’s trip as well, although the defender’s thigh problem is not believed to be serious. City staff remain optimistic about a swift return.
Selection considerations for Guardiola
With results flowing, Guardiola may be tempted to stick largely with the side that impressed in Madrid. There is a strong sense of continuity about City’s current shape, particularly in defence, where stability has returned after earlier-season disruption.
However, the depth of the squad offers flexibility. Tijjani Reijnders is pushing hard for a Premier League start, while Savinho, Omar Marmoush and Oscar Bobb provide genuine alternatives in attacking areas. Rotation is likely to be measured rather than wholesale, especially with Palace posing a significant threat at home.
In defence, Matheus Nunes, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol and Nico O’Reilly have formed a settled unit in recent matches, shielding Gianluigi Donnarumma effectively. Nathan Ake, Rico Lewis and Rayan Ait-Nouri remain available should Guardiola opt for fresh legs.
This fixture also carries additional context for Marmoush and Ait-Nouri, both of whom will depart for the Africa Cup of Nations after this match, making this their final chance to feature before international duty.
Predicted Man City starting XI vs Crystal Palace
City are expected to line up in a familiar 4-3-3 system, balancing control in midfield with pace and directness in the final third.
Predicted line up
Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Gonzalez, Silva, Reijnders; Foden, Haaland, Doku
Injured players: Rodri, Kovacic, Stones
Kick-off: 2pm GMT, Sunday December 14, 2025
Venue: Selhurst Park, London
TV coverage: Sky Sports
City’s ability to maintain intensity while rotating selectively will be key as the season enters a decisive phase. Against a well-drilled Crystal Palace side, Guardiola’s selection choices may again underline the balance between caution and ambition that has defined this latest winning run.