Manchester City Predicted Line-Up for Massive Champions League Clash with Barcelona

The Citizens prepare to take on the Spanish giants at the Etihad Stadium.

In arguably the biggest tie of the Champions League last-16, four-time winners Barcelona take on Premier League hotshots Manchester City.

Both teams are among the favourites to eventually lift the trophy and the Citizens start off at the Etihad Stadium.

Here’s how CaughtOffside thinks Manuel Pellegrini’s men will line-up against Barca.

Goalkeeper – Joe Hart

After a sloppy start between the sticks this campaign, the England No.1 has found form again and is preferred ahead of Costel Pantilimon.

Right-back – Pablo Zabaleta

It’s little wonder Micah Richards is constantly linked with a move away from the 2012 English champions, as Zabaleta is now the preferred choice by some way.

Centre-back – Vincent Kompany

If City are to have any chance of keeping the Catalans’ marauding attack quiet then their talismanic captain needs to be starting in central defence.

Centre-back – Martin Demichelis

It’s a close call between the Argentine and Joleon Lescott, but for sheer experience we think the former Bayern Munich man will edge it.

Left-back – Gael Clichy

It’s a similar story on the left side of defence and either Clichy or Aleksandar Kolarov could get the nod, but the Frenchman’s pace gives him a better chance up against the in-form Alexis Sanchez.

Right midfield – Jesus Navas

The Spain international should be used to Barca’s ways having spent a decade playing against them in the Sevilla first team and the 28-year-old is a reliable outlet on the wing.

Central midfield – Javi Garcia

It’s expected that Fernandinho will not be rushed back so soon after injury and it means that Garcia will get another chance to impress in defensive midfield.

Central midfield – Yaya Toure

It’s the first opportunity the 30-year-old has had to play against the team the midfield ace left in 2010 and with Garcia alongside him, the Ivory Coast international will break forward at every available opportunity.

Left midfield – David Silva

Perhaps City’s most important player in the tie however will be this talented Spain international, who pulls all their creative strings and could be the difference in whether they progress or not.

Striker – Stevan Jovetic

With Sergio Aguero missing out Pellegrini has the choice between three attackers, with some suggesting the Chilean may even go with one up top – although we think Jovetic will get a game.

Striker – Alvaro Negredo

Alongside the Montenegro international Negredo is likely to be drafted back in ahead of Edin Dzeko, with the Spaniard having been in great scoring touch this term, with five in six in Europe.

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