Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus set for first start, tipped for greatness by Roberto Carlos

“He won a superb Brazilian title with Palmeiras. With Brazil, he plays alongside Neymar who raises the game and the level of Gabriel Jesus,” he told Squawka. “At Manchester City, he has (Sergio) Aguero, David Silva. He has players alongside him that will help him adapt slowly. Eventually he’ll become one of the best players in the world.”

The 27 million-pounds ($33.9 million) signing will give Guardiola options up front as he attempts to revive City’s flagging Premier League title challenge, although the Spaniard’s immediate priority is making progress in the Cup. “Of course we want to go through and win that competition. Tomorrow is a final for us,” he said.

“Every game is complicated, so it will be tough – because of the stadium, Palace’s position, because it’s away.” Defender Vincent Kompany could also return to the starting line-up having been out since injuring his knee in the league fixture between the sides in November. “The last game he was on the bench which means he’s ready,” Guardiola said.