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MAN CITY DEALT BIG FITNESS CONCERN AHEAD OF VILLA GAME

Man City face a major test at Aston Villa without the injured Rodri, with replacement Nico González also a doubt. Pep Guardiola's side looks to end a 3-game losing streak at Villa Park against Unai Emery's well-drilled team.

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Manchester City's Rodri - Reuters / Nathan Ray Seebeck

The fitness of star midfielder Rodri is the main concern as Man City gets ready for a big Premier League test at Villa Park. The Spaniard will not play this weekend, according to Pep Guardiola, as he continues to heal from a hamstring injury sustained before the October international break. Fans will be keeping a close eye on the champs as they try to get back into rhythm without their key midfield anchor.

"The men who could not [play] against Villareal are still not ready," Guardiola said. Abdukodir Khusanov, who is also recovering to match readiness, and Rodri are still out. "I think he is near, but he is still not ready due to having an injury in a risky, dangerous spot in his body," the Man City manager continued of Khusanov.

Squad Issues With Man City


Man City's previous victories, especially their Champions League victory against Villarreal, have already suffered from Rodri's absence. Since it is hard to replace him as the midfield's stabilising influence, the squad will once more look for other options.

Nico Gonzalez, a midfielder, has just replaced Rodri and impressed with his poise. However, after taking a foot knock during the Villarreal game, he is now doubtful himself. Guardiola clarified: "We will see how he feels today and tomorrow. I did not meet the doctors." Something was wrong with his feet.

Given the possibility of losing two midfielders, Man City might have to rearrange their lineup and employ tactical adaptability to counter a Villa team that presses hard in front of their home crowd.

Man City Wants to Put an End to the Villa Park Conflict


Guardiola's club has lost their last three trips to Villa Park, so it has not been a comfortable hunting ground for Man City lately. This match is significant in the early title race narrative since both teams are motivated for a successful outcome.

After a shock Europa League loss to Go Ahead Eagles, Villa also has a point to prove. "They were far better than us at the two fixtures we played at Villa Park," Guardiola said, acknowledging the difficulty. On Sunday, hopefully, things will be different.

Emery's Recognition and Tactical Difficulty


Guardiola has long praised Unai Emery's tactical savvy and meticulous preparation as aspects of his coaching style. "I have such a great deal of respect for Unai [Emery], and he is always prepared," he remarked. He went on: "They are not in the Champions League this season, but in my opinion, they are because they caused a lot of trouble in the Champions League last season. One of the most difficult away games of the season, well-planned and of high quality.

To defeat an Emery team that has structure, tactical clarity, and confidence at home, Man City will require concentration, intensity, and precision finishing.

DISCIPLINARY BLOW: MADRID PLAYER SUSPENDED POST EL CLáSICO TUSSLE

Real Madrid's backup keeper Andriy Lunin has been handed a one-game suspension by the RFEF for his aggressive conduct on the bench during the heated final moments of El Clásico. Real Madrid's appeal was rejected.

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El Clásico Scuffle - Photo Credit Getty Images

Los Blancos' goalie Andriy Lunin has been suspended for one game by the RFEF Disciplinary Committee for his involvement in the sideline dramas during the El Clásico's final moments. Although the cameras did not catch it, referee Soto Grado did record that he had sent the Ukrainian off.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the RFEF responded as follows when asked why Lunin received a red card.

The reason for Lunin, Andrii's expulsion in the 90th minute was that he had to be restrained by his teammates after he walked aggressively from his bench to the blonde bench.

The disciplinary committee of the RFEF


"When considered significant, those whose behaviour violates sporting order will be suspended for four to ten games or fined between 602 and 3,006 euros."

Because of Lunin's actions, which constituted a minor violation of the sporting order, he was suspended for one game. The ruling had been challenged by Real Madrid. However, the RFEF stayed steadfast, defending the referee's ruling and the evidence in the match report and on film.

Now, the backup goalie will not play against Valencia this weekend, where he is probably going to be benched. Fran Gonzalez and Sunico, both from the youth team, might be called up as the matchday squad's third choice, with Sergio Mestre serving as a backup.

No Barcelona players or any other Real Madrid players were slapped with bans following the two flash moments in the closing stages of the game. When Vinicius Jr. and Lamie Yamal argued, even players who were not on the team were spotted shoving on the side of the field. The RFEF, however, determined that nothing that came to pass would justify further prohibitions.

ARSENAL STAR DROPS CONFIDENT TITLE HINT AFTER STRONG OPENING

Arsenal star Bukayo Saka is targeting a historic Premier League and World Cup double with England this season. The winger believes it's a "doable" feat as the Gunners lead the title race.

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Bukayo Saka - (Image: David Price/Arsenal FC)

According to Bukayo Saka, it is feasible for Arsenal and England to win both games this season. The season has started well for the Gunners under Mikel Arteta's leadership.

Arsenal leads the Premier League standings by four points at the moment and is starting to look like a title contender. Manchester City is only one point ahead of defending champions Liverpool, who are seven points behind.

Saka, however, is not only interested in winning at his club; he also hopes to succeed internationally. Manager Thomas Tuchel has stated that winning the trophy is his ambition for England, who have qualified for the World Cup in the USA next year.

Saka is optimistic about his club's and his nation's chances of winning. "Yeah, that is my prayer," he remarked in an interview with Sky Sports. It is possible, of course.

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