Champions League betting preview: Will Man City overpower French underdogs Lyon?

Manchester City’s Champions League travails under Pep Guardiola are well documented by now, with the coach often accused of ‘over-thinking’ his team selection in knock-out ties. That didn’t stop him from fielding Phil Foden as a false nine against Real Madrid and he may opt for another unorthodox selection tonight.

One player who’s almost certain to start is Sterling, who has been in devastating form since emerging from lockdown. The attacker has 10 goals in his last 10 games for City, stepping up to the plate in the absence of Sergio Aguero.

In midfield, Guardiola may look once more to Rodrigo, Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne as his starting trio, though with David Silva and Bernardo Silva waiting in the wings, he’s not short of options.

Benjamin Mendy also comes back into contention at left-back after his suspension, while Riyad Mahrez may start on the right of the attack with Gabriel Jesus shifting into a more central role.

For Lyon, the two key players are former Manchester United man Memphis Depay and midfielder Houssem Aouar. Depay has had a Champions League campaign to remember so far, scoring in all six of the games he’s played, including that decisive away goal against Juventus. Aouar is the emerging talent in their squad, with City among a host of Premier League clubs credited with an interest in the midfielder.

While Lyon can’t be overlooked after knocking out Juventus, their Ligue 1 struggles this season suggest a side who shouldn’t be able to stand up to the might of Man City’s talent-stacked squad.

When they’ve been faced with the quality of league rivals PSG, Lyon have often wilted, losing to them on four occasions this season. And if there’s one thing City do well, it’s maintain pressure and stifle their opposition. However, they’ll need to look out for Aouar and Depay on the break – with several teams enjoying counter-attacking success against them in the Premier League this term.

View the latest Man City v Lyon odds.

All odds and markets correct as of date of publication