Manchester City has a chance to curtain its 2023 episode on a high note. With Christmas and New Year arriving, the celebrations for the Premier League side could begin earlier, as they have a shot to add yet another trophy to their collection in the form of the Club World Cup. They will have to battle against Brazilian side Fluminense at the King Abdullah Sports City on Friday, December 22, at 6 p.m. GMT.

Manchester City is in the finals after clinching a 3-0 win over the Japanese side Urawa Red Diamonds. On the other hand, Fluminense cruised past the Egyptian side Al Ahly with a 2-0 scoreline. Both sides are debutants in the 20th edition of the prestigious tournament. 

Expected Starting XI for Manchester City vs Fluminense

Manchester City are expected to go with their evergreen 4-3-3 attacking setup but will be shifting to 4-2-3-1 while defending. On the other hand, Fluminense will also prefer sticking to its tried and tested 4-2-3-1 setup. Here’s a prediction of the names that will likely take the field.

Manchester City: Ederson, Kyle Walker, John Stones, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, Rodri, Mateo Kovacic, Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Julian Alvarez

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Fluminense: Fabio, Samuel Xavier, Nino, Felipe Melo, Marcelo, Andre, Matheus Martinelli, Jhon Arias, Ganso, Keno, German Cano

Injury news for Manchester City and Big Flu

Despite the return to training of the injured trio of Erling Haaland (foot), Kevin De Bruyne (hamstring), and Jeremy Doku (muscle) won’t be able to play the final. All three are banned from facing the Brazilian side because, as per tournament regulations, only the identical 23 squad players chosen for the semi-finals are permitted to participate in the final. 

On the other hand, Fluminense has no injury worries to worry about.

Predictions for the FIFA Club World Cup final 

Before making any forecasts for the result of the grand final, it is important to evaluate both team’s recent performance. Let’s quickly look at each team’s performances in the last ten games.

Manchester City: WDWWLDWDDW

Fluminense: WLLWWWDDWL

Speaking about the head-to-head records, the two clubs have never faced each other before. This will be the first time both will lock horns against each other. 

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Considering these factors, Fluminense is expected to present a more formidable challenge in the finals. However, we remain confident in Manchester City’s ability to complete the task at hand, even in the absence of their talisman, Erling Haaland. Our prediction is for Manchester City to emerge victorious with a 3-1 win.

Where to watch Manchester City vs Fluminense?

The FIFA Club World Cup 2023 final featuring Manchester City and Fluminense will be streamed live on FIFA+. Additionally, fans can watch the game on TNT Sports 1 and Discovery+.

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