Team News: Pep Guardiola leaves out Sergio Aguero for semi-final first leg

Sergio Aguero has been left on the bench for the first leg of Manchester City's semi-final tie against Bristol City in the EFL Cup.

The Argentina international, boasting 18 goals in all competitions this term, drops out of the starting lineup as one of four changes from last time out.

Fernandinho, a starter in the 4-1 win over Burnley, is also included on the bench, while David Silva and Nicolas Otamendi are rested entirely.

Among those to return is Kevin De Bruyne, taking his place in an attack-minded XI that also includes the fresh legs of Yaya Toure, Bernardo Silva and Eliaquim Mangala.

In the absence of a recognised striker, Raheem Sterling is expected to start through the middle for the Citizens, as they look to maintain their unbeaten domestic run stretching back to April.

Visiting boss Lee Johnson can call upon Jamie Paterson and Bobby Reid, meanwhile, having omitted the pair for the 3-0 FA Cup loss at Watford three days ago.

Converted striker Reid heads into tonight's semi-final with 13 goals to his name this campaign, playing a key part in the Robins' surprise run to the last four of the competition.

Johnson makes eight changes in all, reverting back to his strongest starting lineup, and there is also a place on the bench for new signing Liam Walsh.

Manchester City (4-3-3): Bravo; Danilo, Stones, Mangala, Zinchenko; Gundogan, De Bruyne, Toure; Bernardo, Sterling, Sane Subs: Ederson, Walker, Aguero, Delph, Fernandinho, Diaz, Adarabioyo

Bristol City (4-4-1-1): Fielding; Wright, Flint, Baker, Magnusson; Brownhill, Pack, Smith, Bryan; Reid; Paterson Subs: Steele, Vyner, Kelly, Eliasson, Walsh, Engvall, Taylor

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