Ederson
Walker
Stones
Akanji
Ake
Rodir
Kovacic
Bernardo
Kdb
Foden
Haaland.
Not an easy choice for once. Had this conversation elsewhere but I feel kovacic has to play for balance, we are a man too top heavy if he doesn't imo. Bernardo could play central instead but i think the role he does locking down that right hand side stopping the supply to vinicius is vital.
In defence is where the other questions lie. if walker is fit, he plays, but that needs to be solely a medical decision, none of this letting the player decide stuff, walker is the type who wont be honest with himself or the side and will declare himself fit if asked. Not only could it end his season, it puts the side at a disadvantage if we have to use a permitted sub to replace him early on.
Akanji has been out best defender recently, he has to play on form and his pace is very valuable. For me it's at the expense of Dias primarily because Dias is a card away from suspension should we make it to the next round, who knows who might be available for that, him possibly getting booked and being unavailable for the first leg could be huge if there's other injuries.
Incredibly harsh on Gvardiol replacing him with Ake. I wouldn't be at all disappointed to see Gvardiol keep his place but Ake just edges it on previous performances for me if he's fully fit, plus he's a little bit faster and all pace is valuable against these. If they're not available to start and Dias and gvardiol play, I've no worries with that.
Would leave us with a strong bench for once which could prove vital. If all goes to plan we see a repeat of last season and we absolutely blitz them but it's probably a tad unrealistic to expect that, they're a very good team. Control the game, limit their threat keep probing for chances and they'll come as they tire, fresh legs off the bench and the prospect of extra time if needed should see us gain the advantage the longer the game remains even should we be unable to take a lead. It's crucial we aren't chasing the game, chasing it against these pace merchants would be a disaster.
