Pep Guardiola has given a clear indication of the players set to feature in Tuesday’s Manchester City vs Villarreal Champions League meeting, following his tactical decisions in Saturday’s Premier League victory over Everton.
City’s 2–0 win at the Etihad Stadium saw Guardiola make several adjustments to his lineup, with Nathan Ake returning to the starting eleven for his first Premier League appearance since February.
The Dutch defender, who had been linked with a move away during the summer transfer window, replaced Josko Gvardiol and John Stones in the backline.
Ake’s selection came as a surprise to many, considering his recent spell on the sidelines and speculation about his future.
Everton were among the clubs reportedly interested in securing his services, but Guardiola’s decision to start him against Sean Dyche’s side reaffirmed Ake’s value to the squad.
During the international break, the 31-year-old featured for the Netherlands, with national team boss Ronald Koeman stressing that consistent playing time at club level will be vital for Ake’s chances of making the World Cup squad.
The move now appears to suggest that Gvardiol will be handed a starting role in Tuesday’s European fixture in Spain. Having been rested against Everton, the Croatian centre-back looks set to slot back into defence for the vital Champions League group match.
Guardiola is also expected to recall John Stones, who could start at right-back. The England international filled that role in City’s 2–2 draw with Monaco earlier this month, and with Abdukodir Khusanov ruled out through injury, Stones’ versatility could again prove invaluable.
Guardiola is known for favouring defenders comfortable in multiple positions, and Stones’ ability to step into midfield when needed offers the kind of tactical fluidity the manager relishes.
Meanwhile, Bernardo Silva is expected to return to the starting XI. The Portuguese playmaker, who captained the team during the Monaco draw, brings composure and creativity to the middle of the park — attributes Guardiola will undoubtedly rely on in what promises to be a challenging away fixture.
- After he sold him, Guardiola admits he wants ex-Man City player back
- Man City player compared to multiple Ballon d’Or winner after doing something spectacular
The Manchester City vs Villarreal Champions League match is crucial to both team. City currently sit on four points from their opening two games in the competition, while Villarreal have managed just one draw and one defeat.
Therefore, a win in Spain would give Guardiola’s men firm control of Group D as they aim to maintain their grip on European football’s elite competition.
Depth, Dominance, and Guardiola’s Reflections
Reflecting on the Everton victory, Guardiola praised his side’s depth and the contributions of the substitutes who helped seal the result.
“The impact of the guys from the bench, Bernardo, Oscar (Bobb) and Rayan Cherki that has special talent,” Guardiola said after the match.
“Rico and Kova too. We have another victory and it’s good to restart after 10 days. In the first 20 minutes, this always happens after international break.”
City were dominant for large spells against Everton, but Guardiola admitted the first half required patience as his players adjusted after the international break.
“We are not completely in the dynamic that we have,” he continued. “With a win against Brentford we had a good result but then we struggle to come back.
“In general, it was a good game, especially in the second half and this weekend we will sleep in the Champions League positions. That’s good.”
The win not only kept City in contention for the top of the Premier League table but also demonstrated the strength of their squad depth — a key factor as they balance domestic and European commitments.
Players like Bernardo Silva, who was left out at the weekend, and Rayan Cherki, who made a lively appearance off the bench, give Guardiola multiple tactical options heading into midweek matches.
