Pep Guardiola has provided an update on Manchester City’s injury list ahead of Saturday’s Premier League match against Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium.
The Citizens are looking to bounce back from their 4-2 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, but will have to do so without key defenders Ruben Dias and Jeremy Doku.
Dias and Doku Sidelined
Guardiola confirmed that Dias has an adductor injury, while Doku picked up a knock in the win over Ipswich Town.
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The Catalan manager said: “Ruben Dias has an adductor injury. I don’t know how long he’ll be out for. He’s been stable and able to play a lot of games, but this season it is what it is.”
New Signings Available for Selection
Meanwhile, Guardiola has confirmed that new signings Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Vitor Reis will be available for selection against Chelsea.
The trio arrived at the Etihad earlier this week for a combined fee of around £123m.
Guardiola Praises New Signings
Guardiola praised the new signings, saying: “Vitor is young, he has a huge personality. He needs time.
Khusanov has already settled, and playing in the French league he has handled tough, quick, fast players. Omar will adapt quickly.”
Reis Ready to Start
Guardiola also revealed that Reis is ready to start if called upon, despite having only played 22 matches as a professional. “If he’s here with us, of course he can start! We’ll see,” Guardiola said.
Walker’s Imminent Exit
With Kyle Walker’s exit from Manchester City imminent, Guardiola was asked if either Reis or Khusanov could play at right-back in the foreseeable future.
He replied: “I don’t know. They could, but I don’t know this weekend.”
Manchester City’s Premier League Ambitions
Manchester City currently sit fifth in the Premier League table and will be looking to leapfrog Chelsea into fourth spot with a victory at the Etihad on Saturday.
