Haaland Leads Citys Overcrowded Attack as Pep Faces Selection Puzzle

Manchester City face a selection dilemma as Pep Guardiola juggles 17 midfielders and forwards behind Erling Haaland, who recently signed a 10-year deal. Despite scoring freely in the Club World Cup, finding room for Foden, Marmoush, Cherki, Doku, and others remains a challenge. Haaland’s place is secure, but fierce competition surrounds City’s three attacking spots.

During the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola faces a tactical challenge: how to fit his stacked attacking lineup into a cohesive starting XI behind star striker Erling Haaland. Despite his preference for a compact squad, Guardiola brought 27 players to the U.S., including 17 midfielders and forwards. City have already fielded two entirely different starting lineups in their 6-0 win over Al Ain and earlier victory over Wydad Casablanca.

Haaland, fresh off signing a 10-year contract, is the undisputed No. 9. But competition is fierce for the attacking roles behind him. Phil Foden, previously named PFA Player of the Year with 27 goals, remains Guardiola’s most trusted talent, while Omar Marmoush, City’s joint-second top scorer, has impressed with his direct style and goal threat. Bernardo Silva, now club captain, and Ilkay Gundogan offer experience, though their roles may be rotational.

Newcomer Rayan Cherki and youngster Claudio Echeverri add flair, while Oscar Bobb, back from injury and offers academy-bred familiarity with City’s style. Savinho and Jeremy Doku remain impact substitutes due to their inconsistency, despite flashes of brilliance. Guardiola’s squad depth presents both a luxury and a dilemma as City prepare to face Juventus in a must-win final group stage clash.