Sevilla - Manchester City preview: Citizens aim for three consecutive European victories

Given their bumpy start to life amongst Europe's elite, this news will be a welcome boost to Manuel Pellegrini and his players as they've travelled to Spain, in the hope they can snatch all three points again just like they did in Manchester two weeks ago.

Kevin de Bruyne's cooly-taken finish in the dying embers at the Ethiad helped the sky Blues to their second successive group stage victory - as Sergio Agüero did similarly during their trip to Germany on matchday two.

Sevilla hoping to avenge cruel defeat

Fast-forward to current day, and Unai Emery's side will be hoping for revenge. Naturally, as they dominated large parts of the game at Eastlands and travelled back home with nothing to show for it.

The La Liga outfit, who are no easy side by any means, must win to keep their hopes of qualification alive. Sitting on three points from a possible nine, they've won once and lost two.

To really prove they are ready for the step-up in class between the Europa League - which they've conquered in back-to-back seasons - and the Champions League, this is a crucial game toward their campaign thus far.

Currently in mid-table after a topsy-turvy beginning to the league season, they suffered another defeat on Saturday as they lost 2-1 to Villarreal at the Estadio El Madrigal.

Contrasting league form

In stark contrast, Manchester City are doing relatively well in the Premier League - and haven't even reached top gear yet. With the influential figures of David Silva and Agüero still to return from respective injuries, the Citizens have done a sufficient job in their absence. A goalless draw in the Manchester Derby, coupled with narrow wins when you'd have expected them to drop points, is an encouraging mark of true champions.

Whether they'll be able to replicate this consistently, we will have to wait and see.

Team news

Sevilla forward Kevin Gameiro remains a doubt to feature for the full ninety minutes after his exploits on Saturday suggest he needs a rest - whilst Nicolas Pareja, Daniel Carrico and experienced goalkeeper Beto are all out of action.

Rumoured City target, Ever Banega, could make an appearance at some stage, but having recently returned from a knee complaint, it's unsure whether he will be risked or not.

City's crocked duo of Gäel Clichy (ankle) and Fabian Delph (hamstring) have both been pictured in training, and were on their flight to Spain this morning - but are not yet 100% matchfit, after returning from respective injuries.

Silva, Agüero, Pablo Zabaleta and Samir Nasri are all sidelined still, so will not feature.