Haaland, Foden and Ederson out - predicted Man City line-up vs FC Copenhagen

After a frantic derby on Sunday, Wednesday’s Champions League tie comes as the perfect opportunity to rest key players.

Manchester City players will have had just over 48 hours of recovery by the time kick-off comes, and Pep Guardiola may be thinking about the hectic month ahead going into the contest. Defending champions Copenhagen are struggling in the Danish top-flight, having already lost six of their 11 games this season.

They have failed to score in either Champions League game against Borussia Dortmund (a 2-0 loss) and La Liga strugglers Sevilla (a goalless draw). They’ve also failed to score more than two goals in a single game since August 19 in any competition.

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This bodes well for City, who top the Champions League group after two victories. As a result, Guardiola could decide to hand a number of less-favoured players an extended run-out.

Summer signing Stefan Ortega is yet to feature for his new club but will be hoping to get the nod against weaker opposition. City don’t have many options at full-back with Kyle Walker ruled out alongside John Stones, who filled in at right-back prior to his own setback.

Joao Cancelo is set to start in his natural role on the right with Sergio Gomez poised for his second start of the season on the left. The returning Aymeric Laporte came on as a substitute in Sunday’s 6-3 mauling of Manchester United and could start in a bid to rebuild his fitness further.

In-form Manuel Akanji could be given a break after barely having time to breathe following his deadline day arrival and birth of his second child. Nathan Ake - unlikely to feature too often later in the season - could retain his place next door.

Rodri is a doubt for