Manchester City are facing a tough test in their Carabao Cup quarter-final clash against Brentford, as they will be without several key players due to injuries and absences. Pep Guardiola is juggling a congested December schedule, with the Etihad Stadium set to host the crucial match on Wednesday night.
Jeremy Doku, who has been a dangerous attacking option for City this season, will miss the quarter-final due to a leg injury. His absence will be felt as City look to maintain their cup ambitions amidst a packed fixture list.
In addition to Doku, John Stones and Rodri are also sidelined with thigh and hamstring injuries respectively. Their absence leaves City without two influential figures in both the defensive and midfield areas.
The absence of Rodri, in particular, is significant as he plays a crucial role as the team’s midfield anchor and tempo-setter. Stones’ versatility in defense and midfield has also been a valuable asset for Guardiola’s tactical plans.
City will also be without Omar Marmoush and Rayan Aït-Nouri in the coming weeks due to their call-ups for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. This further complicates Guardiola’s squad rotation options during a critical period of the season.
Despite the missing players, Guardiola remains confident in his squad’s depth and experience in the competition. City have a strong history in the League Cup, having won the trophy eight times overall and four times under Guardiola’s management.
Victories over Huddersfield and Swansea have already secured City’s place in the quarter-finals, and a win against Brentford would bring them closer to another semi-final appearance. The high-stakes atmosphere at the Etihad will test City’s ability to adapt without key contributors.
As Guardiola’s side looks to maintain their dominance in one of their most successful competitions, how they cope with the absence of key players will be a key storyline to watch in the upcoming quarter-final clash.
