Manchester City look set to make up to eight changes for their Champions League tie with Celtic.
In the wake of Manchester City’s poor showing against Premier League rivals Chelsea at the weekend, manager Pep Guardiola may decide to rotate his starting line-up for the visit of Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic in tonight’s Champions League Group C encounter, with the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, David Silva and Nicolas Otamendi all likely to be removed from the XI.
After seeing red against Chelsea, forward Sergio Aguero could find himself relegated to the substitutes’ bench in favour of Kelechi Iheanacho – the man expected to replace Aguero throughout the Argentina international’s upcoming four-game domestic ban.
City’s second red-card receiver from the weekend, Fernandinho, is also out of the Celtic game due to a one-match European ban. The Brazilian midfielder will miss three domestic matches through suspension following his altercation with Chelsea’s Cesc Fabregas.
Compatriot Fernando is expected to take Fernandinho’s central midfield slot.
Those anticipated to keep their places in Guardiola’s line-up includes defender John Stones.
The former Everton man could be joined by Gael Clichy, Pablo Zabaleta and 19-year-old central defender Tosin Adarabioyo, in front of goalkeeper Willy Caballero – due to start ahead of Claudio Bravo.
In midfield, potentially only Ilkay Gundogan retains his place, as the Germany international looks set to be joined by the returning Fabien Delph and Fernando.
Nine-capped England international, Delph, could be afforded a start upon his return from more than three months absence due to a groin injury.
There is expected to be a recall for forward Nolito, and a more advanced starting role for one of City’s few positives from the weekend defeat to Chelsea – Leroy Sane.
Here is the predicted Manchester City line-up in full.
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