1 Shak attack
City’s September form has been devastating. Five matches, 22 goals scored and one conceded across three competitions is a near-flawless return. And it is not just the bare numbers that have impressed.
The hunger for goals and the quality of them has been remarkable. Leroy Sane‘s opening strike against West Brom was the culmination of a 52-pass move in which every City player touched the ball.
There were 31 unbroken passes before Fabian Delph deposited the ball into the top corner from 25 yards against Palace at the weekend.
Given the scoring mood City are in, Shakhtar can expect to be attacked.
2 Stick or twist?
After taking a little time to warm up against Palace, City were back to their irresistible best in the second half.
Raheem Sterling scored twice, Sane was man-of-the-match, David Silva picked up two assists and Kevin De Bruyne was everywhere.
It leaves the classic selection conundrum: do you stick with the team that clicked so comprehensively into gear, or do you bring in fresh legs with a trip to Chelsea looming over the horizon?
One thing is for sure, whoever plays will be under pressure to maintain the standards!
3 Boys from Brazil
City’s squad now boasts four Brazilian squad members following the summer additions of goalkeeper Ederson and defender Danilo.
Along with Fernandinho and Gabriel Jesus, the Selecao is proudly represented at the Etihad.
Shakhtar, meanwhile, have eight Brazilian players, and boss Paulo Fonseca is clearly a fan of the nation’s famous footballing talent.
He said: “They are the players with mettle. The guys can quickly adapt to new tactics, they are technical. For us, they are absolutely important. Taison has repeatedly won Brazil caps, and this time they’ve invited Fred.
“Bernard, too, may join the Selecao ranks at any time. There are also Marlos, Ismaily, Azevedo ... Shakhtar has a lot of high-profile players, with all of them contributing to the success of the team.”
4 Group F form
City might be in fine form, but Shaktar are flying too. They have won eight and drawn one of their last nine games, including a 2-1 Champions League win over Serie A leaders Napoli.
They are top of the Ukrainian League and have a wealth of European experience, all of which makes this game an intriguing one.
It’s early days in the competition but City could take a big step towards qualification from Group F with victory.
A win would create clear daylight between the Blues and the rest of the group whatever happens in the Napoli v Feyenoord game.
