Report: Fitness concerns mount for Man City ahead of crucial week | OneFootball

Man City Injury Update: Haaland, Dias and Grealish Fitness Latest

Manchester City head into a pivotal week with significant concerns over key players’ fitness. After a dominant 4-0 victory over Newcastle at the Etihad, Pep Guardiola will have been pleased with his side’s response following their first-leg defeat to Real Madrid. However, fresh injury concerns could complicate City’s preparations for their upcoming Champions League and Premier League clashes against Real Madrid and Liverpool.

Haaland’s Knee Scare Raises Concerns

Erling Haaland’s availability will be a crucial talking point ahead of the midweek trip to Madrid. The Norwegian striker appeared to jar his knee late in the Newcastle win, forcing him to leave the pitch in discomfort. Although he seemed in pain on the bench, he later walked around the pitch post-match, which provided some reassurance.

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“When he was down, everyone was scared but he got up and walked smiling like always,” said Guardiola. “I didn’t speak to him or the doctors but the doctors didn’t come with bad news so hopefully he is fine.”

City will be hoping their star forward is ready in time for Wednesday’s Champions League decider at the Bernabeu.

Potential return date: Wednesday, February 19 – vs Real Madrid (A)

Dias and Ake Facing Fitness Battles

Ruben Dias was a notable absentee from City’s squad against Newcastle, with reports suggesting he was “not fully fit” following his 90-minute outing against Real Madrid. While the club has downplayed the severity of his issue, his availability for Wednesday remains uncertain.

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Nathan Ake was also missing, having been withdrawn after an hour in the first leg against Madrid. Guardiola has yet to provide an update on his status, leaving question marks over whether the Dutch defender will recover in time.

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Potential return date: Wednesday, February 19 – vs Real Madrid (A)

Grealish Yet to Shake Off Hip Injury

Jack Grealish was another absentee in the Newcastle clash, continuing his recovery from the hip problem sustained in the 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid. Guardiola had hinted before the Newcastle match that the injury was not a major concern but was unsure of his return timeline.

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“It’s not as tough as what Manu [Akanji] has done but I don’t know if tomorrow he will be ready,” Guardiola stated. “I don’t think so, but we will see, we will assess in the next hours.”

City will be eager to have Grealish back as soon as possible, given his ability to impact high-stakes games.

Potential return date: Unknown

Other Key Injuries: Akanji, Bobb and Rodri

Manuel Akanji remains sidelined after undergoing surgery on an abductor injury sustained in the first-leg defeat to Real Madrid. Guardiola has ruled him out for “eight to ten weeks,” meaning his return could come towards the end of the campaign.

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Oscar Bobb has returned to training after suffering a leg injury in January but has yet to make his comeback on the pitch. His recovery timeline remains uncertain.

Rodri’s situation is slightly more positive. Initially ruled out for the season with a serious knee injury, he was unexpectedly included in City’s Champions League knockout squad, suggesting there may be a chance of his return before the campaign’s conclusion.

Potential return dates:

Guardiola’s Selection Dilemma Ahead of Crucial Fixtures

With City needing to overturn their deficit against Real Madrid before a key Premier League clash with Liverpool, Guardiola will have to navigate his squad’s injury issues carefully. The fitness of Haaland, Dias and Grealish will be closely monitored in the coming days, as their presence could be decisive in City’s pursuit of silverware this season.