Manchester City, after a stellar performance in the semi-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup, is set to face Fluminense in the final.
The match is highly anticipated, as both teams will be competing in their first-ever Club World Cup final. The final is scheduled for Friday, 22 December 2023, at the King Abdullah Sports City.
Pep Guardiola's Manchester City side is aiming to capture their fourth title of 2023 and become the fourth Premier League team to win the Club World Cup.
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However, they will be without key players Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Jeremy Doku, who are unavailable due to FIFA rules that prohibit any player not featured in the semi-final matchday squad from playing in the final, as per Sports Mole
The predicted Manchester City lineup, in a 3-4-2-1 formation, is as follows:
- Goalkeeper: Ederson
- Centre Backs: Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake
- Midfield: Rodri, John Stones
- Right Midfield: Phil Foden
- Attacking Midfield: Bernardo Silva, Matheus Nunes
- Left Midfield: Jack Grealish
- Striker: Julian Alvarez
Julian Alvarez, who came off the bench in the semi-final, is expected to lead the line in Haaland's absence. Fluminense, on the other hand, have no injury concerns and are expected to field a strong lineup featuring players like Jhon Arias, who has been instrumental in their journey to the final.
Manchester City's recent form in all competitions has been mixed (W-D-W-W-L), while Fluminense has been on a winning streak (D-W-W-W-W). This sets the stage for an exciting clash between the European champions and the Copa Libertadores winners.
The match is predicted to be closely contested, with Manchester City slightly favored to win. However, Fluminense's recent form and lack of key injuries could make them a formidable opponent.
Meanwhile, the journey of Jeremy Doku net worth started from being a budding talent in Belgium to a sought after player at Manchester City, which is nothing short of extraordinary.