Four Man City selections vs Young Boys could hint at line-up against Manchester United

Pep Guardiola’s squad is so tight that there is little room for rotation on the face of it. The roster is thinner than last year’s Treble squad yet has already weathered a number of injury bouts this season.

It is apparent why Guardiola is a stickler for versatility in his players. Nathan Ake, Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden can operate in a number of positions, assets that have been utilised when the squad has been stretched.

The small group also means that Guardiola must take the chance to rest players when he can. That was a vital part of the club’s Treble run last season - finish games off early and take off the most prized assets.

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We have also often seen Guardiola invert this and start rotation players before bringing on the big guns to see the team across the line. In truth, City have not quite managed to bang either gong just yet but the clash with Young Boys is an opportunity to do that.

An emotionally-charged Old Trafford awaits on Sunday where the atmosphere will be thick with Red support. City will need to be on their guard, although will already know this after losing there in January under controversial circumstances.

Ahead of the cross-city trip, Young Boys play hosts in Bern. The Swiss side are the lowest-ranked side in their Champions League group and City are expected to dominate. They go into the tie with just two wins in their last five matches with confidence restricted.

Guardiola might opt to rotate a number of players and start those who may not make the XI against United. One area is at centre-back. Manuel Akanji is set to start following his red