Manchester City XI vs Arsenal: Starting lineup, confirmed team news, injuries and Covid latest today

Joao Cancelo starts for Manchester City at Arsenal on New Year’s Day, despite a disturbing incident off the pitch.

Cancelo suffered cuts to the face after attempting to fight off a gang of robbers at his family home on Thursday.

The 27-year-old confronted four intruders and was left with a scar and bruising around his right eye.

But Cancelo wanted to be considered for selection against Arsenal despite the incident, and City are satisfied that he is ready after checking his physical and mental wellbeing.

Kyle Walker has returned to training and is on the bench for City, while Oleksandr Zinchenko misses out as Nathan Ake is selected at left-back.

Riyad Mahrez is available for what is likely to be the last time before he goes off to the Africa Cup of Nations, and Guardiola will be making the most of that as he starts the winger.

Rodri makes his return, but there is no Phil Foden for the visitors - Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus both start instead.

City are seeking an 11th straight Premier League win that would extend their lead at the top to 11 points before nearest challengers Chelsea and Liverpool meet on Sunday.

Man City XI: Ederson, Cancelo, Dias, Laporte, Ake, De Bruyne, Rodri, Silva, Mahrez, Gabriel Jesus, Sterling

Subs: Steffen, Walker, Gundogan, Grealish, Fernandinho, Kayky, Mbete-Tabu, Palmer, McAtee