According to a report by London Evening Standard on Saturday October 24, 2026, Manchester City have confirmed Erling Haaland's return to the starting lineup for Saturday's Premier League clash against Aston Villa at Villa Park.

Enzo Maresca has also recalled Rayan Cherki and Iliman Ndiaye as the champions prepare for a difficult away fixture following their midweek Champions League victory over AEK Athens.

Haaland was rested for the European encounter after appearing to struggle with a knock during City's victory over Ipswich last weekend. However, Maresca has confirmed that the Norwegian striker is fit to start against Villa, providing a significant boost to City's attacking options.

Marc Guehi also returns to the starting eleven after receiving a rest in midweek. The defender partners Ruben Dias in central defence, while Abdukodir Khusanov and Josko Gvardiol complete the back four. Gvardiol retains his place at left-back despite appearing to pick up a knock late in the match against AEK Athens.

Matheus Nunes and Nico O'Reilly remain doubts after sustaining injuries in recent matches against Ipswich. Their absence from the starting lineup means Rayan Ait-Nouri is among the substitutes, while Khusanov features in defence.

Elliot Anderson and Enzo Fernandez continue as City's central midfield pairing. Cherki returns to the starting team in an attacking role, with Ndiaye occupying the right flank and Jeremy Doku providing width on the opposite side.

Phil Foden drops to the bench despite scoring a hat-trick against AEK Athens on Wednesday. The England international could still play an important role after his outstanding midweek performance, while City's selection offers Maresca additional attacking options.

Antoine Semenyo is unavailable after suffering a knee injury against Ipswich. The winger is expected to miss approximately eight weeks, leaving City without another important attacking option for the coming fixtures.

Manchester City will be determined to secure another victory as they continue their Premier League campaign. However, Aston Villa will present a challenging test at Villa Park, making Haaland's availability particularly important for the visitors.

Manchester City Confirmed Starting Lineup:

Donnarumma; Khusanov, Dias, Guehi, Gvardiol; Anderson, Enzo Fernandez; Ndiaye, Cherki, Doku; Haaland.

Substitutes: Rulli, Kovacic, Ait-Nouri, Reis, Bouaddi, O'Reilly, Foden, McAidoo, Lewis.