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Manchester City will be looking to make another step towards a historic treble when they face Sheffield United in the semi-finals of the FA Cup on Saturday. The Citizens secured a 1-1 draw against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals and will now face Real Madrid in the semi-finals of the prestigious competition. Meanwhile, they are also chasing Premier League leaders Arsenal as they look to defend their domestic title.
City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, will be hoping to keep his squad fresh for their crucial run-in and may choose to rotate his team for the FA Cup match. However, the Citizens’ squad depth means that they can still name a strong starting XI without compromising their chances of success.
The likely goalkeeper for Saturday’s clash is Stefan Ortega. The German stopper made several fine saves in the last round against Burnley, and Guardiola is likely to stick to his Cup-keeper policy. At the back, Kyle Walker may feature at centre-back alongside Ruben Dias, with Nathan Ake injured and Aymeric Laporte a possible inclusion.
In midfield, John Stones and Rodri are expected to start in the holding roles, allowing Kevin De Bruyne to push further up the pitch. The Belgium international has been in excellent form with four assists and a goal in his last five outings. Julian Alvarez may also make the starting XI, given his impressive scoring form in recent weeks.
Out wide, Bernardo Silva is likely to start on the right flank, while Jack Grealish will provide attacking impetus from the left. The England international was impressive in the last round against Bayern, and his dribbling ability and creative spark may cause problems for the Sheffield United defenders.
Up front, Erling Haaland is expected to lead the line following his goal against Bayern Munich in midweek. The Norwegian striker missed a penalty but still managed to score the opening goal, demonstrating his clinical finishing ability.
Overall, Manchester City are favourites to progress to the final of the FA Cup, given the wealth of talent at their disposal. However, Sheffield United will be hoping to cause an upset and reach the final for the first time since 1936. As always, the FA Cup is full of surprises, and Guardiola’s side will need to be at their best to avoid a shock defeat.
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