Manchester City began the match in their preferred 4-3-3 formation. Pep Guardiola made changes in the 72nd minute and the team played in a 4-4-2 formation, having a lead of three goals. Julian Alvarez joined Erling Haaland in the attack. The visitors played in the same formation in the last phase of their UEFA Champions League tie against Borussia Dortmund and went on to score two goals.
