So who starts?
The Blues look set to play with three at the back as Guardiola attempts to counter the 3-4-3 formation that has proved so effective for Chelsea.
John Stones resumes his place in defence alongside Nicolas Otamendi and Aleksandar Kolarov.
Protecting the back three is the returning Ilkay Gundogan alongside Fernandinho.
The surprise is perhaps the recall of Leroy Sane who is expected to play wide with Jesus Navas in a bid to match the visitors’ twin flank threat of Victor Moses and Marcos Alonso.
In the middle, Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva will supply the creative ammo for Sergio Aguero.
Starting XI: Bravo, Stones, Otamendi, Kolarov, Gundogan, Fernandinho, Navas, Sane, De Bruyne, Silva, Aguero
Bench: Caballero, Zabaleta, Sagna, Clichy, Yaya Toure, Fernando, Iheanacho
Big chance for Sane
If Leroy Sane was waiting for a chance to shine, today’s the day!
Powerful and quick, much of City’s game-plan may involve stopping Chelsea’s wide men from causing havoc - expect Sane to go head-to-head with Moses this afternoon in a game that could finally really kick-start the young German’s career in England.
Raheem Sterling failed a fitness test and Nolito is rested for today’s game.
Stones’ big test
John Stones will have one of his biggest tests yet against the in-form Diego Costa - he and Nicolas Otamendi will have their hands full throughout today’s game as the Blues attempt to regain top spot in the Premier League.
Chelsea XI
Courtois, Azpilicueta, David Luiz, Cahill, Moses, Kante, Fabregas, Alonso, Pedro, Diego Costa, Hazard
Subs: Begovic, Ivanovic, Aina, Chalobah, Oscar, Willian, Batshuayi
