It is a rare thing to have a free hit at a competitive game in early December but that’s just what Manchester City have this week ahead of the eagerly anticipated Manchester derby.
Yet again Pep Guardiola’s men found a way through a resolute side in their 2-1 win over West Ham and Guardiola will be hoping to give some of his key players a rest ahead of a game which could prove pivotal as to where the title ends up.
Despite making the right noises about ‘respecting the competition’ and ending the group stage with a ‘perfect record’ the truth is that if City could give Shakhtar the three points and avoid a 4,000 mile round trip to the Ukraine they would.
Whilst most fans would like to see eight or nine key players rested and stay at home the reality is that only one or two are likely to be left behind.
Kevin De Bruyne’s yellow card he picked up late in the home game with Feyenoord means he will be left behind through suspension (how timely) and that will be welcome news for both fans as many believe he has looked tired in recent games.
One of Sergio Aguero or Gabriel Jesus will play in Kharkiv as will one of Raheem Sterling or Leroy Sane.
It is undoubtedly a chance for youngsters like Phil Foden, Brahim Diaz & Tosin Adarabioyo to gain further experience at the top level and many fans will welcome their inclusion.
At the back Claudio Bravo is likely to get 90 minutes in goal and despite his horror show in the second half against West Ham, Eliaquim Mangala is also likely to play.
Ideally, a line up including Bravo, Danilo, Toure, Bernardo Silva and two of the academy squad will be the starting XI but don’t bet on it.
Pep has other ideas from most of us and has a genuine love of the competition. Shakhtar will not be just making up the numbers and Pep wants to win every game – even a dead rubber.
It should not be a surprise to anybody to see a few of the big guns on show on Wednesday evening – even if it is a few days before the derby.
