All the vital information ahead of Pep Guardiola’s eagerly anticipated return to the Nou Camp.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola
There was a certain inevitability in the Champions League draw reuniting Pep Guardiola with his former side during his first season in the Manchester City hotseat. It is set to be one of the highlights of the group stage, though both should still qualify regardless of the outcome on Wednesday evening.
Barcelona are sitting pretty at the top of Group C with two wins from two, with City just behind them having been held to a draw by Celtic in a fantastic tie during the last round of fixtures.
Manchester City’s John Stones applauds fans after the game
The Key Battle – Luis Suarez v John Stones
John Stones has been impressive in his fledgling Manchester City career to date, but this is by far his toughest assignment yet.
Luis Suarez needs just one more goal to reach double figures for the season and always likes to remind English audiences of his talent – but even if Stones can keep the former Liverpool man quiet, there is the small matter of Neymar and Messi to worry about.
Barcelona’s Luis Suarez celebrates
Last Meeting:
Barcelona and Manchester City met in consecutive seasons in 2013/14 and 2014/15, with Barca coming out on top on all four occasions.
The most recent of those was a 1-0 win for the hosts in the Nou Camp in March 2015, with Ivan Rakitic scoring the only goal to seal a 3-1 aggregate win.
Recent form – most recent last:
Barcelona – WDWWLW
Manchester City – WWWDLD
Who’s the ref?
Serbian official Milorad Mazic will be in control on Wednesday evening.
Slovakia’s Martin Skrtel is sent off by referee Milorad Mazic
The 43-year-old recently took charge of England’s 1-0 win in Slovakia in which he sent off Martin Skrtel, and he also has experience of refereeing Manchester City having overseen their 2-2 draw at PSG last season and the 2-0 win against Roma in the previous campaign.
What time is kick off?
This heavyweight clash gets underway at 7.45pm
Where can I watch it?
The match is live on BT Sport 2, with coverage beginning at 7pm. Those without access to a television can listen to live radio commentary on Radio 5Live and TalkSport.
Odds
Barcelona – 4/9
Draw – 4/1
Manchester City – 11/2
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