Next Straight Swap Guardiola’s 4-1-4-1 formation has worked wonders so far this season and it would make sense not to tinker with it. The simplest option to solve City’s problem would be to directly sub in Kelechi Iheanacho as the sole striker. It is remarkable how consistent Iheanacho is on making an impact from off the bench. The 19-year-old made a name for himself last season and is always waiting on the sidelines for his next chance. The Nigerian has already been warming up this week on international break, his 25-yard screamer enough to seal a 1-0 win over Tanzania. Guardiola’s faith is no less than Iheanacho deserves – if he’s good enough, he’s old enough. After all, it was a teenager who won the derby last season, although we’re hoping this time he’s going to be blue.

Previous Next An interchangeable front three Aguero’s out but in, timely fashion, his replacements are ready. Leroy Sane and Ilkay Gundogan are likely to be fully fit come the derby this Saturday. Focusing on Sane first, a free-flowing trio of the German, Nolito and Sterling could well be Guardiola’s most attractive option. With Silva and De Bruyne stringing passes through to the three willing runners, this pacey forward line would cause anyone problems. The advantage of bringing in Sane is that City will have five attack-minded players all capable of interchanging throughout the match. Clever movement and quick passes would be necessary for this fluid system. Guardiola prefers his wingers to be able to naturally cross on their strongest foot which would suggest Sane would start out left should he utilise the former Schalke man. Listed as one of City’s forwards this season, it is also probable that Nolito would start centrally, with Sterling operating the right.

Previous Next Gundogan thrown into the deep end It was over four months ago when Ilkay Gundogan last appeared in a competitive match but the aforementioned German is expected to be fit for the derby. Some occasion to make his return to football. Gundogan coming in would allow Guardiola to set City up in a false nine formation. The Spaniard used this system at Barcelona with Messi in this position, and while no-one’s expecting someone to fill into the level of the world’s greatest, there are plenty of options available. Kevin De Bruyne has featured in a centrally attacking role for City in the past with great success and the Belgian has all the right tools to play in the false nine. Silva is technically able to play anywhere in an advanced position, while Sterling and Nolito are also comfortable with being employed there. On paper, Gundogan adds even more versatility and energy to the City midfield. An all-rounder like him could be perfect for Guardiola’s system, it will also teach us more on the ex-Dortmund man’s most suited position.