Manchester City injury update ahead of their FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool centres on the fitness of John Stones and Rúben Dias, with Pep Guardiola facing a key defensive decision before Saturday’s clash.
City return to action on 4 April 2026 at the Etihad Stadium, aiming to secure another trip to Wembley after lifting the Carabao Cup. However, uncertainty at centre-back could shape the starting XI.
Manchester City injury update before Liverpool FA Cup clash
Rúben Dias remains a doubt after missing the Carabao Cup final win over Arsenal with a hamstring issue. The Portugal international also sat out the recent international break, suggesting the club are taking a cautious approach to his recovery.
John Stones is in a similar position. The defender withdrew from England duty after a minor injury concern, with national team coach Thomas Tuchel confirming the decision was precautionary.
“It was not a big injury, just minor, but given the history we had to be careful. It made no sense to push him.” — Thomas Tuchel
Based on recent matches we’ve covered, Guardiola has rotated carefully in defence when dealing with fitness concerns, particularly with important fixtures coming in quick succession.
Defensive decisions could shape Man City XI vs Liverpool
With both Dias and Stones uncertain, Marc Guéhi is expected to play a key role. The January signing is available for the FA Cup despite being cup-tied earlier in the competition with Crystal Palace, giving Guardiola an important option at centre-back.
Rayan Aït-Nouri could come in at left-back, while Matheus Nunes and Abdukodir Khusanov are expected to feature across the defensive line.
| Position | Expected Starter |
|---|---|
| GK | James Trafford |
| Defence | Nunes, Khusanov, Guéhi, Aït-Nouri |
| Midfield | Rodri, Bernardo Silva |
| Attack | Semenyo, Cherki, Marmoush, Haaland |
source: team news projections – 2 April 2026
James Trafford is set to continue as City’s cup goalkeeper, having featured in previous FA Cup rounds.
Attacking options boosted for Wembley push
Further forward, Erling Haaland is expected to lead the line after remaining in Manchester during the international break. His freshness could be a key factor against Liverpool’s defence.
Omar Marmoush is pushing for a start after scoring twice in the previous FA Cup round, while Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo provide additional attacking options.
Having followed Manchester City closely this season, Guardiola has often balanced rotation with continuity in cup competitions. The eight-day gap before the upcoming league fixture against Chelsea could influence selection decisions.
However, it remains too early to confirm whether Stones or Dias will be risked.
Key Insights
- John Stones and Rúben Dias are both doubts for the Liverpool clash
- Marc Guéhi is expected to step into defence if needed
- Erling Haaland is fully rested and likely to start
- Omar Marmoush is pushing for a place after recent FA Cup form
- Guardiola may rotate with Chelsea fixture in mind
What’s next for Manchester City?
City will make final fitness assessments on Stones and Dias ahead of kick-off, with a cautious approach expected given the importance of upcoming fixtures.
The outcome of this match will determine whether they return to Wembley as they continue their pursuit of multiple trophies this season.
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