Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has provided a positive update on the fitness of his squad ahead of Wednesday’s crucial Champions League playoff second-leg clash with Real Madrid.
Injury Updates
Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, and Jack Grealish all participated in team training on Tuesday and have been included in Guardiola’s 22-man squad for the second leg.
While a late decision will be made on their starting status, the quartet’s availability is a significant boost for City.
Haaland, who has been nursing a knee problem, is expected to start, while Dias and Ake may be recalled in central defense.
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Grealish, who has struggled with consistency due to muscle injuries, may operate on the left flank if deemed fit to start.
Guardiola’s Thoughts
Speaking at a press conference, Guardiola said: “Yes, they have traveled, and we will see tomorrow, but it’s good news they are here.
” On Grealish, he added: “He was able to play a really good game in the FA Cup, but he doesn’t have the consistency to play three games a week.”
Selection Dilemmas
Guardiola must decide whether to start Dias and Ake in central defense or stick with John Stones and Abdukodir Khusanov.
The City boss must also select a new right-back, with Rico Lewis, Matheus Nunes, Khusanov, and Stones all in contention.
With the fitness of Haaland, Dias, Ake, and Grealish a significant concern, Manchester City will be relieved to have their key players available for the crucial clash against Real Madrid.
