Ake has only made two substitute appearances for Man City this term, coming off the bench against Manchester United in the Community Shield and against West Ham United last time out.

However, the versatile Dutchman remains a key player after featuring in 29 Premier League games last term, and Guardiola could have had plans for him ahead of the Arsenal game given his knack for always springing up surprises in his line-ups for some important games.

Being unable to have Ake as an option for selection would be a blow for Man City, and the Gunners could benefit from facing a weakened squad at the Etihad.

Arsenal will hope for some miracles as they could with the services of Odegaard and the injured Mikel Merino against the current Premier League leaders.

The Norwegian midfielder was pictured on crutches this morning after twisting his ankle on Monday night against Austria, while Merino still has around four weeks before returning to full fitness.