Pep to make 1 important change – Predicted 4-3-3 Manchester City line-up to face Hoffenheim

Predicted Manchester City line-up to face Hoffenheim in the UCL

Premier League champions Manchester City travel to Germany to face an interesting test in the shape of Hoffenheim in the Champions League. The Cityzens have begun this season’s European campaign in the worst possible manner, losing their opening group stage game against Lyon at home.

Now the onus would be on Pep Guardiola’s men to put that right and come out of the Hoffenheim challenge with flying colours. It won’t be easy though, as Julian Nagelsmann and his men will be raring to make it difficult for the English club.

Team News

Kevin de Bruyne is slowly recovering from his knee injury but is not in contention for selection until November. Benjamin Mendy is expected to be out until the end of this coming international break. Eliaquim Mangala and Claudio Bravo are for out for long-term.

Probable Manchester City XI

Formation: 4-3-3

Manager: Pep Guardiola

Ederson (GK)

The Brazilian had an easy weekend against Brighton. He would be anticipating a tough evening in Hoffenheim.

Kyle Walker (RB)

Walker played a conservative role against the Seagulls. Even him to perform a similar role in this European away game.

Nicolas Otamendi (CB)

The Argentine has looked good since coming back late from the World Cup. His experience is key at the back.

Aymeric Laporte (CB)

It is now clear as to why Guardiola spent big bucks on the Frenchman. He looks a class act in whatever he does.

Fabian Delph (LB)

The Englishman was rested for the weekend. Expect him to slot in at left-back.

Fernandinho (CDM)

The Brazilian went into cruise control mode when playing against Brighton. He would be relatively fresh to take on the challenge of Hoffenheim’s creative players.

Ilkay Gundogan (RCM)

Gundogan was rested on Saturday. He should be back for this game to provide more all-around stability to the team in terms of contributions at both ends of the field.

David Silva (LCM)

The Spaniard is one of the main men in the midfield for the Cityzens, especially in the absence of De Bruyne.

Raheem Sterling (RW)

Sterling is in good form at the moment, scoring and creating goals in almost every game. His pace and directness could be a key element against a high-line defence.

Sergio Aguero (ST)

The Argentine scored a goal and was then subbed off on Saturday. He is hot in form as well.

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Leroy Sane (LW)

Sane is slowly but surely getting back to his best with his menacing runs and goal-creating passes from the left-hand side.