Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, has confirmed that defensive pair Kyle Walker and John Stones will be absent from Sunday’s crucial match against Arsenal. Walker sustained a hamstring injury during England’s friendly match with Brazil, while Stones finished that match, only to develop an adductor issue during a draw with Belgium.
However, there is some good news as Ederson, the team’s goalkeeper, might return after his thigh injury in the match against Liverpool. Simultaneously, Manuel Akanji is back and fit after overcoming an injury on his international duty with Switzerland. Regarding Kevin De Bruyne’s fitness, Guardiola will deliver a last-minute decision.
While Ederson is showing signs of recovery, Walker and Stones are out of the game. Especially, Walker’s condition concerning recovery appears more severe than Stones’, Guardiola shared.
Responding to the query about Stones playing both friendlies for England despite his condition, Guardiola declined to comment.
Sunday’s match, the season’s final game involving any of the top three, finds Arsenal in the lead. A difference in goal leaves Arsenal atop the table, followed by Liverpool, with reigning champions City trailing by a point.
Despite the setbacks, Guardiola’s team is still vying to replicate last season’s triumph of winning three titles, with fixtures against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals and an upcoming FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea.
Holding previous season achievements in high regard, Guardiolamentioned every match at this point is of high significance, starting with the one against Arsenal. Manchester City has had an impressive run over the last month, but post-international break, things can change. However, the team is training hard and preparing for the upcoming games.
While City swept all three games against Arsenal last season, including a 4-1 triumph at the Etihad, the tables have turned this time. Arsenal emerged victorious in the Community Shield through penalties and a 1-0 win at the Emirates in October.
Guardiola spoke about the difference between Arteta’s team now and before, noting that the same team members and the same coach bring a level of consistency to the game. He emphasised that their game has improved, and switching the manager and players can be challenging.
Arteta, on the other hand, has praised Guardiola as the finest coach globally. The two Spaniards maintain a close friendship since Arteta previously worked under Guardiola at City between 2016 and 2019, contributing to two Premier League victories.
When asked if his current relationship with Guardiola has shifted, Arteta indicated that the admiration and respect he has for Guardiola has not changed. He considers Guardiola to be the best coach in the world and one of the kindest individuals he’s met in football. However, he also acknowledged the need to adapt due to the changes in the rules.
Last season, the two competed for the title, with City ultimately winning over Arsenal and securing the treble. This season, Arteta is eager to surpass the previous season’s record.
Despite his admiration for Guardiola, Arteta admitted he would have preferred to compete against someone he isn’t as close with. However, he emphasised the need to separate personal feelings from professional obligations.
Finally, Arteta provided an update on team members Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, stating they may play after missing the international break due to minor injuries. Gabriel Magalhaes is also expected to be fit enough to start.