Manchester City welcome Wolves to the Etihad with defensive reinforcement arriving at a critical moment. Marc Guehi is poised to make his Manchester City debut, having been ineligible for Tuesday’s Champions League fixture against Bodo/Glimt. The £20million signing is expected to step straight into Pep Guardiola’s starting line up as City look to steady a back line that has shown vulnerability in recent weeks.
Photo IMAGO
With Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol and John Stones all sidelined, the timing of Guehi’s availability is significant. City’s defensive depth has been stretched, and the former Crystal Palace defender is likely to partner Abdukodir Khusanov, particularly after Max Alleyne’s difficult outing in Europe.
Guardiola Backs Guehi’s Immediate Impact
Guardiola has made no attempt to dampen expectations around his new centre back. Asked if Guehi can play, he said on Friday: “Yes. Really good [to have him].
“Considering the absence of central defenders it is really good. It will help us because Marc is exceptional.”
Photo IMAGO
Those words underline both the urgency and the belief that Guehi can quickly adapt to City’s demands, offering authority, composure and organisational clarity.
Selection Issues and Attacking Focus
City still face fitness concerns. Matheus Nunes is a doubt due to a virus, while Savinho, Nico Gonzalez, Mateo Kovacic and Oscar Bobb remain sidelined. Bernardo Silva returns after suspension, adding experience and control in midfield.
Out wide, Antoine Semenyo is set to return and could combine with Jeremy Doku, as City aim to put pressure on Arsenal by ending a run of four Premier League games without a win. Guardiola also hailed the “exceptional” contributions of Rayan Ait-Nouri and Nico O’Reilly in offering width in midweek.
Haaland and City’s Push Against Wolves
Erling Haaland will again lead the line, still searching for an open play goal since the 3-0 win over West Ham before Christmas. Against Wolves, Manchester City will expect territorial dominance, but the spotlight will fall on whether Guehi’s introduction can bring defensive stability and renewed confidence.
Predicted Man City XI: Donnarumma; Ait-Nouri, Khusanov, Guehi, O’Reilly; Rodri, Silva; Semenyo, Cherki, Doku; Haaland.
Venue: Etihad Stadium
Kick off: 3pm GMT, Saturday, January 24, 2026
How to watch: Not on TV in UK