Pep Guardiola has already provided some major clues on who could start in Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Bayern Munich.
Manchester City hold a 3-0 lead from the first leg last week and are heavy favourites to progress to the semi-finals of the competition once again. Guardiola has repeatedly emphasised that Wednesday’s trip to the Allianz Arena should not be taken lightly, and his team selection at the weekend also highlighted how important he is viewing the match.
Guardiola didn’t start with Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake and Ilkay Gundogan as the Premier League champions beat Leicester City 3-1 on Saturday, with the trio all expected to come back in for the midweek contest.
The City manager also withdrew goalscorers John Stones and Erling Haaland at half-time, while regulars Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish all made way during the second period, presumably with the trip to German in mind.
That brings the number Guardiola has earmarked for Wednesday up to eight, but a key decision seems to be who starts at right wing. Bernardo Silva played there in the first leg and was excellent, but Riyad Mahrez, who filled that role on Saturday, is in superb form.
City also have a fully-fit squad as they head into the final stretch of the season. Phil Foden was the only absentee for the Leicester win but was back in training on Tuesday and is an option once again. The 22-year-old is not likely to start against Bayern but may be an option from the bench.
With that in mind, here’s how we think City will line up on Wednesday…
1. GK: Ederson
Made some good saves last week to deny Leroy Sane.
2. RB: John Stones
Scored at the weekend and is in superb form. In possession, Stones will push into midfield.
3. CB: Manuel Akanji
Was excellent in the first leg and has established himself as key player since joining in the summer.
4. CB: Ruben Dias
Enjoying a prolonged run in the side after a difficult start to the campaign