Pep Guardiola opted for an almost unrecognisable formation against Arsenal on Saturday with Joao Cancelo being utilised in a free midfield role and the shape of the backline constantly evolving over the course of the game.
But we expect a much more settled team tonight when Manchester City start off their UEFA Champions League campaign against Porto.
The Sky Blues had crashed out following a shock defeat to Lyon last season after beating Real Madrid in both legs in the Round of 16. Fans and pundits were surprised at the extent of changes the Catalan coach had made against the struggling French team and Pep will be wary of a repeat this time around.
TEAM NEWS
Manchester City are still without four of their first-team players. Aymeric Laporte and Benjamin Mendy joined the injured list and will miss the action along with Kevin de Bruyne and Gabriel Jesus.
Sergio Aguero and Ilkay Gundogan made their comebacks from injury against Arsenal and could play a part tonight as well.
PREDICTED MANCHESTER CITY LINEUP vs PORTO (4-3-3)
DEFENCE
Ederson will play in goal. The Brazilian has been in top form this season and will look to continue in the same vein.
Kyle Walker seems undroppable at the moment going by his form and is likely to start at right-back in the Manchester City lineup.
Ruben Dias will start in central defence and will be keen to renew his personal rivalry against Porto.
John Stones wants to prove himself but is unlikely to dislodge Nathan Ake from the Manchester City lineup as of now.
Over at left-back, Joao Cancelo is expected to get the nod. It is not ideal for City or the player but Pep is not left with too many fit options in that area of the pitch.
MIDFIELD
Fernandinho might have to make do with a place on the bench once again. Rodri should start as the deep-lying midfielder.
In order to maintain a good hold on the midfield proceedings, Ilkay Gundogan could be deployed from the start by Pep.
Bernardo Silva seems to be gaining momentum and will be keen to build on the strong start to the season. He is likely to complete the midfield trio.
ATTACK
We expect Sergio Aguero to be handed a breather after playing 60 minutes upon his return from the long injury lay-off.
Raheem Sterling could play through the middle with his spot on the left being taken by Ferran Torres.
There could be a toss-up between Phil Foden and Riyad Mahrez for the right-wing spot in the Manchester City lineup.
