PEP GUARDIOLA RECEIVES MAJOR BOOST WITH TRIO’S RETURN THREE MAN CITY STARS SET FOR EVERTON COMEBACK
Man City faces a fitness crisis with Rodri's new setback a major concern. Get the latest on his injury, plus updates on Cherki's early return and the latest on Ait-Nouri, Khusanov & Marmoush ahead of a crucial fixture run.
Man City is dealing with several serious fitness issues at a pivotal point in the season. Players have experienced premature setbacks that jeopardise the stability and balance group, while others are getting closer to making a recovery. Those who are hoping for a healthy outcome over the international break would have to be content with cautious optimism instead of absolute certainty.
Another setback for Rodri
Players are as vital to City's rhythm as Rodri, so his frequent fitness problems are a serious worry. The midfield player has been closely watched after suffering a severe knee injury, but it seems like his workload has caught up with him.
He was selected again after starting against Monaco, but he only played 22 minutes before leaving the game. Guardiola's recent remarks regarding his health suddenly became more significant.
"Everyone understood why I substituted Rodri against Monaco today," Guardiola told reporters, answering questions. "We are waiting for those tests; I don't know how long he will be out," he continued.
No return date has been set, and a prolonged absence would necessitate an unwelcome midfield reorganisation.
Rayan Cherki's Unexpected Comeback Is Near
At least one sight at the Gtech Community Stadium seemed promising. Originally slated to remain sidelined for "two months, seven or eight weeks," Rayan Cherki unexpectedly made an appearance on the bench about a month ahead of schedule.
Before his progress was stopped by a thigh injury, the £30 million summer acquisition had only made two competitive games, scoring on his debut. Despite missing the Brentford match, his selection suggests he will soon be fully involved following the international break.
Return date possible: against. Everton (H) on October 18, 2025
Defensive Issues Persist
Due to an ankle injury sustained during the August home loss to Manchester City, Rayan Ait-Nouri is still out. His absence from Algeria's most recent roster indicates he is not yet ready to return, since eight games have gone by without him playing.
Date of possible return: Unknown
Similar circumstances apply to Abdukodir Khusanov. He was sent off against Arsenal at halftime, and Guardiola declared him out for "the next three games." The final of those games was Brentford, but he didn't play. Now, he has less than two weeks to get in shape.
Possible return: October 18, 2025, against Everton (H)
A Slower Recovery for Marmoush Than Anticipated
Anticipated that Omar Marmoush would return before this international window; however, he has not shown up. With Egypt, the forward injured his knee ligament and hasn't returned yet. Uncertainty surrounds whether his recovery has been a setback or if it has just taken longer than anticipated.
Return date possible: against. Everton (H) on October 18, 2025
BRUNO FERNANDES SHOWS LEADERSHIP IN TRAINING AS SQUAD RESPONDS
Bruno Fernandes is mentoring Manchester United's record signing Matheus Cunha, helping the Brazilian adapt on and off the pitch. Their bond is paying dividends as Cunha opens his goal account.
BORUSSIA DORTMUND STAR EMERGES AS KEY TARGET FOR HANSI FLICK
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has explicitly requested the signing of Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck. The German international is a top target to reinforce Barça's backline.