Manchester City travel to Slovakia for the first time in their history to face Champions League debutants Slovan Bratislava on Tuesday night, as the English champions look to bounce back from a recent dip in form.
Pep Guardiola’s side, currently on a rare run of just one win in four matches, will be without key midfielder Rodri, who has been ruled out for the season with an ACL tear. The absence of the Spanish international was felt in City’s 1-1 draw at Newcastle United on Saturday.
“Losing Rodri is a significant blow,” Guardiola said in a pre-match press conference. “But we have depth in our squad and must adapt quickly.”
City enter the match as heavy favorites, despite their recent struggles. A win or draw would see them equal Manchester United’s Champions League record of 25 games unbeaten, set between 2007 and 2009.
Slovan Bratislava, making their group stage debut, come into the match following a 5-1 defeat at Celtic two weeks ago. Manager Vladimir Weiss acknowledges the challenge ahead.
“We’re facing one of the best teams in the world,” Weiss stated. “It’s a huge test for us, but also an opportunity to show what we’re capable of on this stage.”
The financial disparity between the clubs is stark. Transfermarkt values Slovan’s squad at £24 million ($29.5 million), compared to City’s £1.04 billion ($1.28 billion).
City may rotate their squad, with Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku potential starters. Kevin De Bruyne remains sidelined with injury.
Slovan are likely to field a defensive setup, with Marko Tolic expected to play a key role behind lone striker David Strelec.
The match kicks off at 20:00 local time (18:00 GMT) at the Tehelné pole stadium in Bratislava.
Despite their recent form, Manchester City are expected to dominate. A high-scoring affair could be on the cards, reminiscent of City’s record 7-0 European victory.
As Slovan make their home Champions League debut, they face a baptism of fire against the reigning Premier League champions.
