As Newcastle United prepares to face Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on February 15, 2025, manager Eddie Howe is expected to make strategic adjustments due to recent injuries and tactical considerations.
Newcastle faces several injury concerns ahead of the match:
Joelinton: The versatile midfielder is likely to miss the game due to injury.
Sven Botman: The central defender is also expected to be unavailable, impacting the team’s defensive lineup.
Harvey Barnes: The winger remains sidelined, limiting options on the flanks.
On a positive note, Dan Burn and Anthony Gordon are anticipated to be fit for selection, providing stability in defense and attack, respectively. Considering the absences and the formidable opposition, Newcastle may adopt a 4-3-3 formation to ensure defensive solidity while maintaining offensive potential.
Goalkeeper: Nick Pope – The reliable shot-stopper is set to continue as the last line of defense.
Defenders:
Right Back: Tino Livramento – Expected to start on the right flank, offering both defensive cover and forward thrusts.
Center Backs: Fabian Schär and Dan Burn – With Botman unavailable, Burn is likely to partner with Schär to anchor the central defense.
Left Back: Lewis Hall – The young defender may be entrusted with duties on the left side, bringing energy and resilience.
Midfielders:
Defensive Midfield: Bruno Guimarães – Serving as the midfield anchor, orchestrating play and breaking up opposition attacks.
Central Midfield: Sandro Tonali – Expected to provide creativity and link-up play between defense and attack.
Central Midfield: Joe Willock – Likely to add dynamism and forward runs, posing a threat to City’s defense.
Forwards:
Right Wing: Jacob Murphy – Anticipated to start on the right, utilizing his pace to challenge City’s full-backs.
Striker: Alexander Isak – Leading the line, Isak’s goal-scoring prowess will be crucial for Newcastle’s offensive efforts.
Left Wing: Anthony Gordon – Set to operate on the left wing, aiming to exploit spaces and deliver crosses into the box.
This lineup aims to balance defensive responsibility with attacking intent, as Newcastle seeks a positive result against a strong Manchester City side.
