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City will face off against Borussia Mönchengladbach for their 5th group stage game in the Champions League. City are in second on the Group C table with seven points, while Gladbach sits in third with four points. Here are a few players who could make a massive impact on this fixture:
Thorgan Hazard
Despite missing the first games of the season, Eden’s little brother Thorgan has 4 goals and 2 assists in Bundesliga and Champions League matches, including a goal against Barcelona. The Belgian midfielder permanently signed with Gladbach in 2015, but his former club, Chelsea, has considered buying him back after his recent performances; there is a buy back clause in his contract, and the midfielder has made his hopes to play for the London club public. He is a dangerous winger on the outside who could cut inside the City defense and cause problems at the back.
Nicolas Otamendi
The center-back has to keep the City defense stable once again after Vincent Kompany will reportedly miss several weeks due to another injury. Otamendi has performed well in Champions League in the past for City, as he helped the Sky Blues reach the semifinals last year thanks to a valiant performance against PSG. It will be interesting to see if John Stones will be in the starting lineup, as Pep may play three at the back or put Aleksandar Kolarov at center-back to partner with Otamendi; nonetheless, the former Valencia man must play well to secure a City win.
Raffael
After leading Gladbach with 15 goals last season, the Brazilian forward has struggled to score on the front lines. In his seven appearances this year, he has only scored twice without any assists. He will have to lead Gladbach’s attack in order to have a chance at a victory in Borussia-Park.
David Silva
The Spanish midfielder should be in the starting lineup for City after missing the 2-1 win against Crystal Palace due to a lack of match fitness. He is second in total chances created for City this year with 31, only behind Kevin de Bruyne’s 35. His dribbling and passing skills will be utilized heavily to help the Sky Blues advance to the knockout stage of the Champions League.