Manchester City fans received disappointing news from manager Pep Guardiola ahead of the Manchester Derby as two key players face recurring injuries, potentially jeopardizing their chances in the upcoming clash against rivals Manchester United.
This revelation was made through a Football Blog post, hinting at a possible advantage for supporters of the opposing team.
One of the crucial players, Jack Grealish, is set to miss the forthcoming match against Manchester United, as confirmed by Guardiola. The anticipation for this Premier League showdown is high, with City hosting their cross-town rivals at the Etihad Stadium.
However, Grealish’s absence adds uncertainty to City’s lineup, particularly after he sustained a hamstring injury during their recent FA Cup fifth-round encounter against Luton Town.
Guardiola, addressing the media in a pre-match press conference, revealed the extent of Grealish’s injury and the uncertainty surrounding his return. He indicated that Grealish won’t be available for the match and expressed uncertainty about his recovery timeline.
Additionally, Guardiola suggested that the midfielder may not be fit for England’s upcoming international fixtures in March, emphasizing the need for proper healing to maximize his contribution.
Grealish’s premature exit from the Luton Town match reflected his frustration, but Guardiola emphasized the importance of resilience in the face of setbacks.
Despite Grealish’s below-par performance this season, with only three goals and two assists in 27 appearances across various competitions, his absence poses a significant loss for Manchester City.
Overall, Guardiola’s announcement serves as a setback for Manchester City, raising concerns about their lineup and strategy for the crucial derby clash.
Conversely, it offers a glimmer of hope for Manchester United fans, hinting at a potential advantage in the upcoming match.
