Poland U17 vs Georgia U17 - Friendlies

The Friendlies returns to the home ground on September 30, 2026, where Poland U17 and Georgia U17 will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Maresca needs the qualitative depth to meet the demands of a season across 60-plus games.

Both camps will view the Friendlies meeting at the home ground as an opportunity to put a marker down, regardless of where they currently stand. Poland U17's recent form is difficult to quantify, but the occasion itself should bring the best out of them. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. Phil Foden was handed a free role in the No 10 position behind striker Muamba, who scored in consecutive pre-season games.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Poland U17 will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Georgia U17 will back themselves to cause problems on the break. City also want to continue improving their attack, with a top left-winger still in the offing too.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer Son Heung-Min, with 4 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. Another midfielder is wanted after already signing Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, with strengthening the left-hand side of their team also being a priority.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Friendlies standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. In terms of outgoings, Perri seems closest to an exit, but that will likely have to wait until Trafford's mandated holiday after the World Cup is over or a No 2 arrives.