Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola believes John Stones is the right fit for a midfield role against Real Madrid after springing a Champions League selection surprise.

Stones will join Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne in midfield while Guardiola has opted for four natural centre backs in his backline. Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake will play in the middle with Josko Gvardiol on the left and Manuel Akanji on the right.

Guardiola has also opted to start Jack Grealish over Phil Foden while Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez and Jeremy Doku also have to be content with places on the bench. Grealish has endured a difficult campaign but impressed in the second half of the FA Cup win over Leyton Orient at the weekend and was an integral part of the 2023 Treble winning campaign.

READ MORE: Man City suffer huge injury blow vs Real Madrid amid second leg doubt

READ MORE: Man City fans brutally mock Real Madrid before Champions League clash with Rodri banner

And Guardiola has been impressed with what he has seen in training from the midfielder having handed him a start.

Speaking to Amazon Prime, Guardiola said: "Jack had to compete with our wingers, when I decide for other ones it is not because I am against (Jack). There are players that give you something for specific games, I saw the training sessions and in many things and that is why I decide."

On the decision to start Stones in midfield, the City boss added: "He has played many times there, he is an experienced guy. He played really good in the last two games. I am happy that some players are back."

City remain without Oscar Bobb and long-term absentee Rodri but Mathues Nunes was fit enough to be on the bench after missing training this week.