Guardiola to take his time with Aguero

Guardiola to take his time with Aguero

Manchester City was full of praise for striker Sergio Aguero after he scored against Marseille on Wednesday, but he says he will not rush him back into the starting XI.

The Argentina international had missed the last three games due to a knee injury, but he stepped off the bench to score during the 3-0 success.

Ferran Torres opened the scoring at the Etihad Stadium, before Aguero pounced on a loose touch in the box, just 10 minutes after stepping off the bench.

Marseille's Alvaro Gonzalez then scored an own goal when under pressure from Raheem Sterling and City ended their Group C campaign with another routine victory.

City take on Manchester United on Saturday but Guardiola says Aguero won't be in his starting side, despite his marking his return with a goal against Marseille.

Guardiola made nine changes for Wednesday's battle, with the derby at the back of his mind.

City are one point behind United after the first ten games of the season, but Guardiola says Aguero will not be starting this weekend, with a patient approach needed after an injury-hit start to the campaign.

"His instinct to score will always be there," said Guardiola.

"He had 25 minutes and scored a goal. Step by step. Will see the reaction tomorrow."

Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan will need to be assessed after being taken off at half-time following a knock to the ankle.

The Citizens are unbeaten in all competitions since the 2-0 league defeat by Tottenham on November 21, while United head into the derby on the back of their elimination from the Champions League.

City are 8/11 to beat United on Saturday and 4/1 to win the Champions League outright.

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