Here's how we expect Celtic and Manchester City to line-up for their friendly clash in the North Carolina. Cr: SNS/Getty Images.placeholder image
Here's how we expect Celtic and Manchester City to line-up for their friendly clash in the North Carolina. Cr: SNS/Getty Images. | SNS Group/Getty Images

Celtic starting XI vs Man City: Team news, predicted line ups as big names return and debut looms

By Graham Falk

Sports Writer

Published 23rd Jul 2024, 14:05 GMT

Celtic continue their pre-season tour of the US with a clash against Manchester City in the early hours of Wednesday morning. This is how we predict both sides with line-up for the game.

After dispatching MLS outfit DC United 4-0 in their opening game of the US tour, Celtic now face a battle against four-time English Premier League champions Manchester City in North Carolina.

Both champions of their respective leagues last season, Brendan Rodgers’ Hoops side will be hoping to impress their travelling fans against the might of Pep Guardiola’s star-studded team and continue their free scoring pre-season form that has resulted in them scoring nine goals in their last two friendlies.

A Matt O’Riley double followed by strikes from James Forrest and Mikey Johnston helped them start their stint across the pond with a bang on Saturday at the Audi Field in Washington DC, and now they will make the short journey to North Carolina for a glamour friendly at the 50k seater Kenan Memorial Stadium.

But who start for both sides in North Carolina? Could Kasper Schmeichel make his Celtic debut after joining the squad last week? Will Jack Grealish and Erling Haaland be included for the Cityzens - and which youngsters will be handed further opportunities to impress against high-class opposition?

The Scotsman has predicted how we think Celtic and Manchester City will line up, with a number of big names returning for both squads.

Like Anthony Ralston, the left-back has yet to start a pre-season game for the Hoops as he recovers from his extended season. Needs minutes now though and will be given an opportunity to do so on Wednesday.

9. LB: Greg Taylor - Celtic

Like Anthony Ralston, the left-back has yet to start a pre-season game for the Hoops as he recovers from his extended season. Needs minutes now though and will be given an opportunity to do so on Wednesday. | SNS Group Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group

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Went to Euro 2024 with Croatia but is now back with the City squad after their early exit from the competition. One of the big names that will return for Pep Guardiola against Celtic.

10. LB: Joško Gvardiol - Man City

Went to Euro 2024 with Croatia but is now back with the City squad after their early exit from the competition. One of the big names that will return for Pep Guardiola against Celtic. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images

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The captain will almost certainly start as he slowly builds up his fitness following his summer in Germany with the national side.

11. CM: Callum McGregor - Celtic

The captain will almost certainly start as he slowly builds up his fitness following his summer in Germany with the national side. | SNS Group Photo: Alan Harvey - SNS Group

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A forgotten man at the Etihad, Phillips has been included in the City squad for the US and will look to grab any opportunities handed to him - with one likely to be in the offing against Celtic.

12. CM: Kalvin Phillips

A forgotten man at the Etihad, Phillips has been included in the City squad for the US and will look to grab any opportunities handed to him - with one likely to be in the offing against Celtic. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images

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