Manchester City host Arsenal in the Premier League title race-defining match at the Etihad on Sunday, live on Sky Sports – but key players are facing a race to be fit in time for the competition.
With Arsenal leading Liverpool at the top of the standings on goal difference and City just a point further back, the game between City and Arsenal is a hotly-anticipated and important encounter.
However, coming off the back of an international break, there is electoral uncertainty on both sides…
Man city defense problems
City had two blows for England’s defenders, with Kyle Walker And John Stones The two were forced to wound up while accompanying the three lions.
Walker was sidelined during the first half of Saturday’s loss to Brazil with what was later described as a strained hamstring. The issue is not considered too serious and the city hopes he will be available for Sunday.
However, the stone situation is less clear. After Tuesday’s draw against Belgium, England boss Southgate suggested it was an added problem with his neck but the City defender did not look comfortable when he had to do it just nine minutes into the game. He said later Sky Sports News’ Rob Dorsett is not sure if he will be fit to face Arsenal.
Another issue that has cropped up in the past few days is fitness Manuel Akanjiwho had to withdraw from the Switzerland squad with a concussion.
Throw in the goalkeeper Ederson Still out with a thigh problem and it’s clear that Pep Guardiola may have some tweaks to make this weekend…
Any other concerns for the city?
More pitches, Guardiola will hope that it is a more positive image, with Earling Holland Able to play twice for Norway after giving his club a scare when he was spotted limping in training at the start of the break. City mate Oscar Bob They also played in the games and scored against the Czech Republic.
Another brilliant star of the city, kevin De Bruyne, can also be returned. He missed the FA Cup game with Newcastle before the international break with a groin injury and was not called up by Belgium but could return after a recovery period.
of Argentina Julian Alvarez Costa Rica played in Los Angeles in the early hours of Wednesday morning, so there will be a late return to training in the city, while Matheus Nuneswho was on the scoresheet for Portugal against Sweden, missed their second game with suggestions he had injured his ankle.
How does Arsenal look?
Arsenal have key men who need to prove their fitness before heading to City. Be hungry He was withdrawn from the England squad last weekend as a precaution with a minor muscle problem in his hamstring. Hopefully he can return to form for Sunday.
Center back Gabriel Maglas The Brazilian was also withdrawn from the national team squad as a precaution with inflammation in his Achilles.
Gabriel Martinelli He also missed out on playing for Brazil with the leg injury he sustained at Sheffield United.
However, there was positive news during the break Takero Tomiyasu And Thomas Party Behind closed doors is a friendly feature so can be in conflict.
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