Manchester City’s injury woes worsen as Matheus Nunes suffers an injury setback with their Premier League clash with Liverpool less than a fortnight away.
Matheus Nunes is set to join a number of Manchester City players on the sidelines after being declared “clinically unfit” while representing Portugal on international duty.
The midfielder was set to play for his country in games against Liechtenstein and Iceland, but will now miss out, compounding City’s problems. Nunes, a summer signing from Wolves, is still making his way into the Etihad’s first team.
Now, however, he faces a race against time to be fit for the match against Liverpool in Manchester, which will be Guardiola’s first assignment when they return to Premier League action in less than two weeks. Both teams have significant injury lists, and Guardiola is concerned about the fitness of key players.
Kevin De Bruyne has been absent since the opening weekend and isn’t expected to return for the clash with the Reds. Sergio Gomez is also a long-term absentee. Guardiola though saw several players make it through the 4-4 draw at Chelsea but then pulled up with issues.
Goalkeeper Ederson, who conceded a stoppage-time penalty, has pulled out of the Brazil squad. It is a similar story for Mateo Kovacic and Nathan Ake, who have opted against playing for Croatia and the Netherlands respectively. John Stones has also seen a muscle injury flare up once more, potentially putting his involvement at risk.
Guardiola and City enjoyed a dominant win in their clash with Liverpool at the Etihad last term, overcoming an early goal to run out 4-1 winners without the prolific Erling Haaland. Jurgen Klopp’s side though have only lost once this season and are getting back to their best.
Despite De Bruyne’s influence, City manager Pep Guardiola stated last week that he prefers to ease him back in gradually. “I spoke with him, and he said he feels really good,” Guardiola explained. “He isn’t training with us yet, and I’m not sure when he will.” I’d say he’s nearing the end of his training with us.
“I believe (it could be soon), but I’m not sure.” This type of injury… we should avoid putting pressure on him. No pressure if the physio says “next step, next step.” Recover; it is not necessary to make the wrong or bad decision and then find yourself back (where you started). Kevin’s injury required surgery, so it’s a step-by-step process.”
Leave a Reply