Manchester City travel to Selhurst Park on Friday for a Premier League clash with Crystal Palace, with manager Enzo Maresca poised to make several notable calls on his starting lineup and squad.
The headline talking point ahead of kick-off is the possible involvement of 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi, who could be included in the matchday squad for the first time since his move to the club. Speaking at Thursday's press conference, Maresca confirmed the youngster's readiness despite limited time working directly with his new teammates.
"He is ready, he was working with his former club so he is fit," Maresca said. "We will see how long it is in terms of adaptation but for sure he is ready to go."
Despite that vote of confidence, the Italian coach indicated that Bouaddi is more likely to be among the substitutes than in the starting eleven, stressing the importance of a gradual introduction for the teenager rather than throwing him straight into a demanding role.
"No rush for him. For sure he will help us now and in the future. But he is just 18," Maresca explained. "It is my job and it's the club's job to manage him in the best way, don't put pressure on him, he is young and he needs time."
Elsewhere, City appear to have avoided a fresh injury concern, with midfielder Elliot Anderson expected to be available despite picking up a knock during the win over Bournemouth in the opening weekend of the season. His presence in midfield would provide Maresca with continuity as he shapes his side for the trip to south London.
One of the more significant lineup changes is likely to involve Rayan Cherki, who is in line to return to the starting eleven after an impressive substitute appearance against Bournemouth, where he set up both goals in City's season-opening victory. His performance has strengthened the case for an immediate recall.
Cherki's return to the XI would likely push Phil Foden into a wide role, a switch made necessary by the continued absence of Jeremy Doku, who remains sidelined through injury. That situation leaves City somewhat light on out-and-out wide options heading into the match, with Foden's flexibility set to be relied upon once again.
Matheus Nunes is considered a doubt for the fixture, adding another layer of uncertainty to Maresca's selection process as he finalizes his matchday squad.
Based on the information available, City's likely starting lineup features Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, behind a back line of Khusanov, Dias, Guehi, and Gvardiol. In midfield, Anderson and Kovacic are tipped to start, while an attacking trio of Semenyo, Cherki, and Foden would support Erling Haaland up front.
Crystal Palace will provide a stern test at Selhurst Park, a venue where visiting sides often find few easy points. City will be aiming to build on their opening-day momentum and continue their pursuit of an unbeaten start to the new Premier League campaign.
The match kicks off at 8pm BST on Friday, August 27, 2026, and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Based on reporting from Standard Football.