Mario Balotelli will lead the line for Roberto Mancini and Manchester City as his side look to overturn decades of misery by reaching the FA Cup final at Manchester United's expense. Without Carlos Tevez, that won't be easy, but Mancini has opted to go for an attacking side which will probably be at least mildly troubling for the experienced United defence: Balotelli will be flanked by Adam Johnson on the right and David Silva will have the chance to display his artistry against John O'Shea at right back.
As expected, the formidable duo of Nigel de Jong and Gareth Barry will shield a vulnerable looking defence, but contrary to previous reports, Micah Richards is not fit to start and will be replaced by Pablo Zabeleta at right back. The City defence will face a tricky United trident featuring Nani, Dimitar Berbatov, and Antonio Valencia - but at least there'll be no Wayne Rooney to torment them this time around.
Man City (4-2-3-1): Joe Hart; Aleksandar Kolarov, Joleon Lescott, Vincent Kompany, Pablo Zabaleta; Nigel de Jong, Gareth Barry; David Silva, Yaya Toure, Adam Johnson, Mario Balotelli.