Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola are preparing for the team's first pre-season match against Celtic in North Carolina on Tuesday, facing the challenge of missing 15 international stars.
Among the absentees is Copa America winner Julian Alvarez, who is currently competing with Argentina at the Paris Olympics.
Additionally, 14 of City's Euro 2024 participants, including key players such as Rodri, Kyle Walker, Phil Foden, John Stones, and Ruben Dias, are still on break.
Notable names like Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake, Joao Cancelo, Matheus Nunes, Bernardo Silva, Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku, Mateo Kovacic, and Josko Gvardiol are also among those absent.
Despite these significant absences, Guardiola's squad will see the inclusion of Norwegian star Erling Haaland and Jack Grealish, both eager to make an impact.
Haaland's return to fitness is a crucial boost for City, while Grealish is looking to prove himself after missing out on England's Euro 2024 squad.
These two may feature prominently in the attack alongside promising young talents James McAtee and Oscar Bobb.
Kalvin Phillips, who has had limited opportunities in the first team, is expected to play in midfield, potentially partnering with Maximo Perrone.
With the defense missing many of its regulars, Rico Lewis could become the most experienced player in the backline, supported by Luke Mbete, Callum Doyle, and Josh Wilson-Esbrand.
On the goalkeeping front, Guardiola has the luxury of choosing from all three of his senior keepers: Ederson, Stefan Ortega, and Scott Carson.
Despite rumors linking Ederson with a move to the Saudi Pro League, he is expected to start between the posts for this match.
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