Manchester City vs Norwich

Manchester City welcome Norwich to the Etihad Stadium in Manchester this Thursday for the Round of 32 of the League Cup. Enzo Maresca’s defending champions begin their campaign against Championship opposition, looking to extend a strong start to the 2026-27 season.

Manchester City Team News and Injury Latest

The primary storyline for the home side centres on the fitness of Jeremy Doku. The Belgian winger has been sidelined with a calf problem sustained during last month's Community Shield defeat against Arsenal in Cardiff. However, Maresca recently confirmed that Doku’s return is close, with this midweek cup tie circled as his likely comeback date.

Meanwhile, City will be forced into at least one attacking change, as Phil Foden misses out through suspension. His absence could open the door for rotation, with reports suggesting up to two potential debuts could be on the cards for the hosts. Nico O’Reilly is also available for selection in midfield after recovering from a minor back injury that temporarily halted his start to the campaign.

Maresca's Midfield Reshuffle

With Foden serving a ban and City navigating a packed schedule following their recent Champions League victory over Porto and the 199th Manchester derby, rotation in the engine room is heavily anticipated. Big-money summer arrivals Enzo Fernandez and Elliot Anderson both recently broke into the starting lineup and could feature again as Maresca balances control and energy in the centre of the pitch.

The City boss has relied on a flexible tactical structure this term, often utilising Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo behind Erling Haaland. Given the quick turnaround before their upcoming domestic fixtures, squad depth will be thoroughly tested against their lower-league visitors.