We can expect a goal fest when Manchester City take on Monaco in the Champions League round of 16. The England side notched a 5-3 win in the first leg but Monaco will have the advantage courtesy of scoring three vital away goals.
The Premier League side notched up a record run of ten matches unbeaten at their home in the Champions League after they got the better of Monaco. But the French side have been the top scoring side in Europe. They have scored an astonishing 84 goals in the Ligue 1 and with the likes of Radamel Falcao, Mbappe and Bernardo Silva in their team, they have the capability to pose a very potent threat to Pep Guardiola’s side.
City’s defensive errors have often been exposed which is a major woe for Guardiola. The gaffer admitted that they have to score otherwise they won’t be able to capitalise on their lead.
The absence of Gabriel Jesus would definitely hurt them but they have a striker like Sergio Aguero in their ranks who can be devastating on his day. Radamel Falcao has been the man in form for Monaco. The Colombian frontman has netted 24 goals so far for the French team. His delightful chip in the last leg hogged the limelight and he would love to repeat this feat.
Predicted 4-1-4-1 Manchester City XI Vs Monaco
Defence
Willy Caballero is once again set to start in the City goal. The 35-year-old has impressed and is expected to get the nod ahead of Claudio Bravo.
Fernandinho might start in the left back position. The makeshift defender has been pretty decent in his new position. Pep loves to play possession based football and Fernandinho can be used to effect that.
John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi will be at the heart of the City defence. Stones has been shaky in a few games but should make the cut ahead of Kolarov.
Pablo Zabaleta will be on the right side of the defence.
Midfield
With Fernandinho slotting in the defence, Yaya Toure will start in the midfield. The Ivorian international has proved his mettle time and time and against a free-scoring team like Monaco, he has to bring all his experience into play.
Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva will be deployed in a more advanced role.
Attack
Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling will be on the two flanks. With Gabriel Jesus out for a brief period Sergio Aguero will be the front man.
