Man City Rest Key Players Including Haaland for EFL Cup Clash Against Swansea

Manchester City will face Swansea in the EFL Cup fourth round following their recent 1-0 Premier League defeat to Aston Villa, where Erling Haaland's scoring streak ended and he sustained a knock. Pep Guardiola plans significant squad rotation for the cup tie, resting Haaland and some other key players, giving opportunities to fringe and returning players such as Mateo Kovacic, Rayan Cherki, and Divine Mukasa. Despite Swansea’s mid-table Championship status and multiple changes to their lineup, City remain cautious due to Haaland’s absence, as he has been their main goal threat this season. The squad changes also reflect City’s intent to take the EFL Cup seriously, having won it multiple times under Guardiola, although they have not reached the final since 2021. Goalkeeper James Trafford is expected to start, with a rotated defense including Nathan Ake and Ruben Dias, while midfield and attack will feature a mix of young and experienced players. The match will be broadcast on Sky Sports+ and streamed via Sky Go.