Sergio Aguero will be recalled to the point of Manchester City’s attack – despite Gabriel Jesus scoring his sixth goal in as many starts in Saturday’s win at Everton.
Pep Guardiola confirmed Aguero would start Tuesday’s Champions League tie with Dinamo Zagreb after being dropped to the bench at Goodison.
In his absence Jesus reinforced his own claim for more regular playing time after voicing his frustration over his lack opportunities in the week.
The Brazil international opened the scoring in the 3-1 win, making it 22 goals in his last 21 starts for club and country.
But Aguero has also been in scintillating form, scoring eight goals already this season.
His cameo against Everton – coming on after 66 minutes – was the first game in which he’s failed to score this term.
Guardiola said: “I try to let them both play. I know the guy who does not play is not happy, but that's what it is.
“I think they are real friends - they respect each other. That's good. It's important Gabriel goes and scores goals, and Sergio creates chances and scores goals. That is what we want.”
Guardiola also hailed Riyad Mahrez’s performance and believes the winger has improved on the back of winning the Africa Cup of Nations.
“All this season he is playing outstanding,” said the City manager. “One year he was the best player in the league so he is an exceptional player. I'm happy for him because he's playing at an incredible level.
“ I think the African Cup made him believe how good he can be. He knows it, but I think it helps to win this kind of trophy for Algeria, for his country. It was so important for him.
“And from the beginning, he arrived with an incredible mentality, positive in the way he plays. He has the feeling when he gets that ball in that position, the 18-yard box close to the area, something is going to happen.
“It's a feeling and I think all the spectators can have that feeling and that is because he has a gift. He has something special.”
