The Man City lineup that should start against Chelsea in first game of 2021

Manchester City head to Stamford Bridge for their first match of 2021.

City have been hit hard by COVID-19, with five starting players unavailable after testing positive for the coronavirus. The two known players, Gabriel Jesus and Kyle Walker, won't make an appearance, with Pep Guardiola being tight-lipped about who the other three are.

This is the Sky Blues' first match since their 2-0 win over Newcastle on Boxing Day, meaning their available players should be well-rested and ready for the test Chelsea present.

Here's how Guardiola should line up for the battle at the Bridge.

1. Goalkeeper & Defenders

Ederson (GK) - There are large question marks over who the other three isolating players are for City, with Ederson rumoured to be one. If not, expect him between the sticks as usual.

John Stones (CB) - Impressively, has retaken his role in Pep's plans. Expect him to play on the right of a three-man defence again due to Kyle Walker's absence.

Rúben Dias (CB) - The rock at the heart of Man City's defence this year. His transition from Benfica to the Etihad has been nothing less than remarkable. First centre-back on the team sheet.

Nathan Aké (CB) - Made only his fifth starting appearance in the league against Newcastle, but is finally being given the chance to show why City splashed out £41m for him last summer.

2. Midfielders

João Cancelo (RM) - The Portuguese right-back was pushed into a more forward right midfield role in the win against Newcastle, performing well. Will be asked to dart into the box again to provide deadly crosses.

Rodri (CM) - Has effectively replaced Fernandinho as Pep's starting deep-lying midfielder. Played in every City game this season bar one.

Ilkay Gundogan (LM) - The versatile German has come alive in the last two months, becoming the linchpin to Guardiola's more defensive-minded midfield. His partnership with Rodri has become impenetrable.

Kevin De Bruyne (AM) - The Belgian hasn't been able to hit the heights of last season yet, but still has seven assists in the league. Needs to get in on the goals more though, with just two strikes in all competitions.

3. Forwards

Riyad Mahrez (RW) - Has been out of the team the last few games, but with Bernardo Silva not shining on the right, the Algerian should be given the chance to threaten Ben Chilwell's left flank.

Ferran Torres (ST) - The 'quiet' £20.8m summer signing has slotted into Guardiola's front three effortlessly since arriving from Valencia. Has won every game he has scored in, leading City's line whenever called upon.

Raheem Sterling (LW) - The England international hasn't been scintillating this season, but has performed admirably enough. Put back onto his favoured left side, he'll be desperate to increase his tally of four league goals.