Soccer

Manchester City Host Ipswich Town Seeking to Extend Perfect League Start

By Hugo Brennan

Manchester City Host Ipswich Town Seeking to Extend Perfect League Start

Manchester turns quickly from a European setback to a domestic test on Saturday, when Manchester City welcome Ipswich Town to the Etihad Stadium. Enzo Maresca’s side were beaten at home by Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, after PSG produced an outstanding first half, but City return to league duty with a flawless record: six victories from six and sole possession of first place.

The news from the club

Maresca is preparing to rotate his squad as the fixtures begin to accumulate. The Italian highlighted City’s improvement after the interval against PSG, particularly following the introductions of Ndiaye and Bouaddi, and indicated that some regular starters will be rested.

He said the current period demands careful management because of the volume of matches, while also offering opportunities to players coming into the side.

Phil Foden has recovered from injury and is expected to be back in the matchday squad. Maresca has not ruled out selecting the England international from the start, although the more likely plan is for Foden to begin among the substitutes. The coach said a final decision would be made on Saturday.

Saturday at the Etihad

City face Ipswich in the seventh round of the Premier League on Saturday, 16 October. Kick-off is scheduled for 11:00 Brasília time at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester. ESPN and Disney+ will show the match.

Expected line-ups

Manchester City: Donnarumma; Nunes, Rúben Dias, Guehi, O’Reilly; Elliot Anderson, Enzo Fernández, Ndiaye, Cherki; Doku, Haaland. Coach: Enzo Maresca.

Ipswich Town: Walton; Ouattara, O’Shea, Diop, Davis; Palacios, Lukic; Fatawu, Enciso, Clarke; Emersonn. Coach: Gary O’Neil.