With David Silva not fit there will be more onus on Samir Nasri. As impressive the past few games as he was infuriatingly inconsistent before them, the question will be whether he can thrive in Silva's absence. He should move inside to a more central role with Carlos Tevez likely behind Sergio Aguero.
It was noticeable how deep Yaya Toure was against United last Monday, with Gareth Barry often in a more advanced role. Chelsea's starting line up features the trio of Oscar, Eden Hazard and Juan Mata which will mean Toure's presence and role as a deep lying midfielder will be crucial to City's defensive game.
Although Chelsea's three 'amigos' all start and all provide a threat to City, it is Juan Mata who will likely be the biggest danger. He has been involved in almost 40% of Chelsea's goals scored whilst he has been on the pitch and he possesses the ability to both create and score in equal measure.
Roberto Mancini has made a big call in selecting Costel Pantilimon (who has featured throughout in this years FA Cup) ahead of Joe Hart. Pantilimon has performed ably when called upon for the most part but does not provide the presence or assurance that Hart does.
With the selection of both Sergio Aguero and Carlos Tevez in attack City's forward line has the mobility to trouble Chelsea's central pair, themselves perhaps not the most mobile. Rafa Benitez has opted for both Ramires and John Obi Mikel and it is the latter who will likely have the responsibility of thwarting City's attacks early.