Borussia Dortmund vs Manchester City: CONFIRMED starting lineups
![Ansgar Knauff and Erling Haaland look set to start against Manchester City. (Photo by Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images) Ansgar Knauff and Erling Haaland look set to start against Manchester City. (Photo by Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/5e259319eff93fb5349a5d603001ae37f2a63e71774f442bea016a8d989cc68e.jpg)
Defense: Mateu Morey, Manuel Akanji, Mats Hummels, Raphael Guerreiro
Borussia Dortmund go into the game against Manchester City without any alteration to their back-line. For one, it is arguably the best back four they have right now, and secondly, it’s not like there’s much depth to supplement it to allow rotation, either.
Mateu Morey retains his place at right back as the young Spaniard continues to outperform Thomas Meunier. The lively and spirited defender has shown his will to fight for the team and has earned the trust of his coach. While Morey is still young and somewhat prone to mistakes, his energy, drive, and creative potential make him a good watch out on the right for the most part.
Dortmund’s central defensive pairing remains unchanged going into this game. Manuel Akanji has provided some seriously improved performances over the last few games, particularly in the last outing against Manchester City. Both he and Hummels made it very difficult for City to penetrate the Dortmund box last time around, and they will look to do the same in the second leg. Hummels has been able to shake off the stomach cramps he suffered on Saturday, and starts alongside Akanji.
On the left, will will see Raphael Guerreiro retain his place in the starting XI. The Portuguese international’s creativity may prove vital in helping Dortmund unlock the Man City defense, which has looked quite stellar so far this year.