Maresca Shakes Up City Lineup for Cup Clash

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has dramatically reshaped his starting lineup for the EFL Cup fourth-round match against Brighton & Hove Albion. Nine players have been changed from the team that recently lost to Aston Villa, with only Marc Guehi and Rayan Cherki retaining their spots. Goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli is set for only his second start since joining the club in the summer.

The Citizens' defense will see Vitor Reis partnering captain Marc Guehi, while Rico Lewis and Nico O'Reilly operate as full-backs. In midfield, Ayyoubi Bouaddi and Mateo Kovacic are set to play, with Cherki likely in an advanced role. Phil Foden and Allan will occupy the wide attacking positions.

With star striker Erling Haaland rested, the responsibility of leading the line falls to 17-year-old Floyd Samba. He aims to build on his impressive senior debut in the previous round, where he scored twice against Norwich. This marks a significant opportunity for the young forward.

Brighton & Hove Albion's head coach Fabian Hurzeler has also made substantial changes, with seven alterations to their squad. Olivier Boscagli and a midfield trio are the only players to keep their starting positions. The Seagulls' defense will feature Boscagli, Michael Svoboda, Costinha, and Jaouen Hadjam.

In midfield, Jack Hinshelwood will play an advanced role, supported by captain Pascal Gross and Yasin Ayari. The wide attacking duties will be handled by Diego Gomez and Malick Yalcouye, with Georginio Rutter starting up front. Notably, Brighton has been bolstered by the return of Yankuba Minteh and Mats Wieffer from long-term injuries; both are named on the substitutes' bench.