Defenders
Left Back: Aleksander Kolarov
The Serbian international seems like a genuine contender for the left back spot; given his willingness to move forward. And despite being played as a center back against Sunderland last weekend, one can expect Kolarov to return to his natural position for games to come, just as he did against Steaua Bucuresti in midweek.
Center Back: John Stones
City ended one of the sagas of the summer, by signing Stones. And as expected, Stones has made his way straight into the playing 11, starting both of City’s games so far, this season.
The former Everton man is known for his game reading and his ball playing ability though he can be caught out of position, occasionally; as was the case when Sunderland equalized against City last weekend. That aside, Stones will most likely be the one to lead City’s defense as they look to build from the back under Guardiola.
Center Back: Nicolas Otamendi
Otamendi was chosen to partner Stones during their Champions League qualifier in midweek.
Otamendi had done well to form a formidable partnership with Eliaquim Mangala in the absence of Vincent Kompany last season. Given that he is not the fastest center back in the league, he will have to rely on his game reading and positioning to cement his place in the City back four this season.
As good as a partnership that Stones and Otamendi may form at the back for City, one could expect Otamendi to make way for Kompany, once the City skipper returns to full fitness.
Right Back: Pablo Zabaleta
The Argentine veteran is another of those who started for City in midweek. And true to his nature, he put in another hard-working shift for City.
More often than not, Zabaleta manages to balance his attacking instincts with his defensive responsibilities with admirable ease, something that should make him one of the first names on Guardiola’s team sheet this season.
