Tue Sep 17 06:36:20 UTC 2024: ## City Face Inter in New Champions League Format Amidst Financial Turmoil

**Manchester, England** – Manchester City are set to face their Champions League final opponents, Inter Milan, in the opening game of the expanded tournament, which has drawn criticism from City defender Manuel Akanji. The new format features 36 teams competing in a single table, with each side playing eight matches, replacing the traditional group stage. Akanji has expressed concerns about the increased workload for players, particularly with the added pressure of the Club World Cup at the end of the season.

“It’s getting more complicated with the league,” Akanji stated. “It’s just got bigger, more games. Then we have the Club World Cup at the end of the season. It’s just game after game.” Despite his reservations, Akanji is looking forward to the reunion with Inter, acknowledging the positive memories of their 1-0 victory in last year’s final.

The match, scheduled for Wednesday at the Etihad Stadium, comes at a critical time for City, who are facing serious financial charges from the Premier League. The independent commission hearing into alleged financial breaches began on Monday, with potential consequences ranging from points deductions to expulsion from the league. City vehemently deny any wrongdoing but await the verdict, which is not expected until 2025.

Meanwhile, City have enjoyed a perfect start to the Premier League season, securing a 2-1 victory against Brentford on Saturday. Importantly, midfielder Rodri, who scored the winning goal in the Champions League final, returned to action after a hamstring injury, playing the second half. Additionally, defenders John Stones and Kyle Walker made their first starts of the season, signaling that Guardiola is approaching full strength ahead of the demanding schedule.

As City navigate this turbulent period, their performance against Inter will provide early insight into their ambitions for both domestic and European success, despite the ongoing financial uncertainties.

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