FORMER MADRID AND CITY STRIKER NICOLAS ANELKA’S KEY CLASHES

DIAS v BENZEMA

Dias has become one of the best central defenders in the world during his time at City – but against Karim I think it could be his biggest test yet. He has probably been the best player in Europe this season and hasn’t just been scoring goals but also making them as well. He is in the best form of his career and it is hard to see how he can be stopped. DE BRUYNE v MODRIC

Probably the two most creative players on the field and two of the best midfield players I have ever seen. They have so much vision, so much creativity, and in games that could be very tight it might be up to one of these players to find a little bit of magic.

MAHREZ v MILITAO

Mahrez is a player that always impresses me. There were times when he was not always

starting – but when he did play he always looked dangerous. Now he starts for a very strong City team and is playing at a high level. Madrid will be happy that they have Militao back from suspension. He has been a strong defender for them.

RODRI v KROOS

Rodri has been one of those players for City that offers them composure and stability among all the brilliance they offer. In games like this you need that anchor in midfield and he can provide that. As for Kroos we all know about his ability and he has played in so many of these games.

SILVA v CAMAVINGA

Silva is another player who impresses me every time he gets a chance and with City playing without a recognised striker his goals have been important. I have a feeling Camavinga will start this game. At 19 he is already showing he can be one of the best.