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Yeah, although I don't really like to measure a team's performance in the Domestic League to guarantee a similar performance in the Champions League. However, it would be a shame if Manchester City were eliminated early, we still need them to qualify to enliven the competition of the giant teams. On the other hand Club Brugge should be watched out for because they managed to hold Juventus to a draw, beat Sporting, and Aston Villa which shows that they are very serious about playing in the Champions League. It is possible that facing Manchester City will increase their sense of ambition to win by any means.
There is one scenario I can think of as to how Manchester City could secure a chance to make the playoffs and that is their win against Club Brugge and PSG's win against Stuttgart. If both win, Manchester City will automatically qualify for the playoffs and might win a ticket to the round of 16.
I also don't expect Manchester City to fail any quicker than in previous seasons. They must be able to ensure themselves to qualify for the round of 16 and fight to win every ticket to the next stage, but this is also not easy. Manchester City have been very inconsistent with their performance so far, but their performance in the Premier League is starting to improve and this will probably affect their performance in the Champions League as well.