We saw Manuel Akanji and Jack Grealish join Manchester City’s injury list during City’s defeat to Real Madrid on Tuesday evening. As every game passes by we see Pep Guardiola’s side pick up a fresh injury concern. But with a player going out of Pep Guardiola’s lineup, it does allow other players to play. It also gives them the opportunity to impress. Looking ahead to Saturday’s match against Newcastle and beyond there may be an opportunity for Manchester City’s new signings to make an impression for Pep Guardiola’s side.
All four of Manchester City’s new signings in January have now made their debut for the club. Omar Marmoush has played more than Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis and Nico at this stage. But you do feel that Saturday’s match against Newcastle may see one of Khusanov or Reis step in at the back in place of Manuel Akanji. Either player may give City’s squad a boost of energy and the pace they so desperately lack defensively. Khusanov appears suited to do exactly this more so than Reis at this stage. Playing against Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy would be a test for Khusanov. But it could be the occasion for him to start and make a mark for his team.
Up front, Omar Marmoush will likely come in for Jack Grealish, or he could replace Kevin De Bruyne in the City starting lineup. The Egyptian international has shown glimpses of his quality during his starts for Manchester City. But he has yet to score a goal or have a moment for his new team. That will come, but if it does come on Saturday, it could be crucial to City’s chase for Champions League football. Marmoush is a quality player and the scene may be set for him to make an impact if he does start at the Etihad.
If Nico is fit enough to start he may well change Manchester City’s midfield.
If Nico is fit enough to start you do sense that he could change the dynamic of Manchester City’s midfield. He has only played 20 minutes for City since arriving from FC Porto. Take his error out of the equation and you did see a glimpse of what he may well add to City’s midfield. Manchester City have lacked a player like Nico all season long. But first he has to be passed fit. But if he is you do expect him to aid City’s cause. The hope is that he can do that against Newcastle.
Manchester City’s new signings could be vital across the remainder of this season. They appear set to get more opportunities due to City’s injury situation. That may well come against Newcastle at the Etihad. If they can help City win tomorrow it could prove to be vital. But if they can help Manchester City secure Champions League football come the end of the season it may set them up for the future at the club.
