Heading into the international break Manchester City’s injury crisis hit Pep Guardiola’s squad hard. The world champions were without a host of key players during their current four-game losing run. Injuries were only part of the reason for City’s four-game skid, as they were outplayed by Tottenham, Bournemouth, Sporting CP and Brighton.
The international break came at the right time for Manchester City as it gave their squad the chance to rest and recover. Now it appears that Manchester City’s injury situation is improving ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash with Tottenham.
Alex James has provided an update on the Manchester City squad for Manchester Evening News. James reports that a host of City players could be in line to play against Tottenham. James reports that Phil Foden and Matheus Nunes should be in contention to play this weekend. Furthermore, James reports that the pair were suffering from fitness issues rather than fresh injury concerns.
James also reports that Jeremy Doku, Jack Grealish, John Stones, Ruben Dias and Manuel Akanji could also be in contention to feature against Ange Postecoglou’s side this weekend. Alex James also reports that Nathan Ake could be in line to return from injury this weekend. But that appears unlikely. A report from Sam Lee for the Athletic last week indicated that Ake is set for a spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
Is there finally light at the end of the tunnel with Manchester City’s injury crisis?
Based on Alex James’ new report it does seem that Manchester City could get a host of players back this weekend. That would be a huge boost for Pep Guardiola’s side. As mentioned above, the champions are in the midst of a four-game losing streak in all competitions. But with reinforcements appearing to be on the comeback trail Pep Guardiola may have the majority of his squad to call upon this weekend.
There is also the bonus of a host of City players having added rest over the past fortnight. Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan were allowed the opportunity to rest. Given their age that is a welcome boost for the champions. Bernardo Silva also returned early from international duty so he should have benefited from some time off.
Pep Guardiola’s squad should benefit greatly from a fortnight off. Based on Alex James’ report it appears that Manchester City’s injury situation is improving. A further update on City’s squad is expected when Pep Guardiola fronts the media on Friday.