Raheem Sterling failing to make the starting line-up for the Champions League quarter-final would have been a major shock three months ago.
Pep Guardiola said: “Raheem has been so important in our period here since we arrived – nothing would have possible without him. Right now I decided (on this team) because I see Riyad and Phil in incredible, incredible, incredible top form. This is the only reason why. There is not another one. They collaborate with each other, they compete with each other and in that moment and Phil … you see the last 30 minutes he played against Dortmund he created all the chances that we had (after) 1-0. He scored the last goal with incredible control and assist from Gundo. And Riyad, the last month always has been so decisive, so this is the only reason why. He’s important for the team and the club, there’s no doubt about that. That was the reason for the selection.”
