Manchester City tasted defeat for the first time this season in the Premier League as the reigning champions were bogged down by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge by 2-0, with goals coming from N’Golo Kante and David Luiz. It was a night to forget for Pep Guardiola’s men, and they would look to put the disappointment behind when they take on TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in their next outing in the Champions League.
The English champions are on the top of their group and should want to go into the next round with a win over the Bundesliga club. However, it will not be an easy task for the Citizens as Die Kraichgauer, who are coming off back to back draws in the domestic front, would look to end their Champions League campaign on a winning note.
Team News
Pep Guardiola has a number of injury worries to deal with as first-team players like Bernard Mendy, Kevin De Bruyne and Sergio Aguero are all out of contention for the next match. Captain David Silva also sustained an injury in the last game against Chelsea and would be assessed before the match along with Oleksandr Zinchenko, who is suffering from a face injury.
Goalkeeper
Ederson had a forgettable outing in the last match against Chelsea and should look to get back to winning ways with a clean sheet against Hoffenheim as he starts in the goal for the Citizens.
Defence
With Bernard Mendy injured, Fabian Delph will start as the left back for the next fixture. Aymeric Laporte and John Stones would begin at the heart of the defence while the England international Kyle Walker will guard the right side of the defence.
Midfield
With David Silva in doubt to start against Hoffenheim, Ilkay Gundogan will marshall the midfield. Riyad Mahrez and Fernandinho will accompany him.
Attack
In the absence of Sergio Aguero, the onus will be on Raheem Sterling to lead the line for the Citizens. Leroy Sane would put in his shift from the left while Bernardo Silva should start on the right side as the wide attacker.
Predicted Formation: 4-3-3
