Champions League Round 4: City @ Sevilla

Manchester City recorded their first win against a La Liga club since 2011 after the dramatic extra time strike from Kevin De Bruyne, and after the weekend's shaky victory against Norwich, City look to continue a run of form that has seen them unbeaten since their league match against Spurs in late Sept. Today we will see City travel to Spain to play a rather streaky Sevilla side. The Spanish Club comes off of a loss to Villarreal that ended a four game unbeaten run, but they are still incredibly strong at home, where they have not lost against European competition in their last ten matches.

City will once again be without the services of David Silva, who is expected to return at the weekend, Sergio Aguero is also set to miss this match. On the plus side, Gael Clichy and Fabian Delph have both been cleared to play and are traveling with the squad. Due to an ankle injury, Clichy has seen no game time since the season started, and Delph has ostensibly missed the start of the season after suffering a knock to his hamstring.

Sevilla will likely see the return of Argentinian midfielder Evar Banega, Banega provides a strong technical ability in the center of the pitch, and while Sevilla will be without Striker Kevin Gameiro's services, the pressure will be on the back line of City's to work hard, because they will be tested. Unai Emery's side look to level with City on points, giving City the tough task of clinching a round of 16 berth against Juventus in Turin.

Returning to Spain are winger Jesus Navas, who spent many seasons with Sevilla, as well as defender Nicolas Otamendi, who's towering header against Norwich has left City fans over the moon the the potential of set piece opportunities. Otamendi has seemingly shaken off his rough start with the club and turned into a formidable rock in the back line.

The match will be very high tempo and may suit the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and Jesus Navas. Whether we will see that trio on the pitch simultaneously is highly doubtful, but one area of the field that will be crucial is in the center forward/striker position. Wilfried Bony must make more runs and not rely on holding up play. Kelechi Iheanacho may not be totally prepared for a pressure filled match like this, so this is where Bony must prove his worth and come good.