Pep Guardiola says Jérémy Doku has resumed training but stopped short of confirming whether the winger will feature against Leeds United this weekend.
Manchester City travel to Elland Road on Saturday aiming to close the gap on Arsenal to just two points at the top of the Premier League table. With momentum building and the title race intensifying, City approach the contest in confident mood.
The Cityzens are currently enjoying an eight-match unbeaten sequence in all competitions, a run that has kept them firmly in contention both domestically and in Europe.
However, much of that spell has come without Doku, who has not featured since sustaining a calf problem during the Champions League win over Galatasaray in late January.
The Belgian international’s direct running and attacking flair have been missed at times, though City have found ways to cope in his absence.
Guardiola, however, suggested the forward’s return to training marks an important step forward in his recovery.
“Yesterday he made the first training,” he said when asked about Doku’s fitness.
Despite that positive update, the City manager was unwilling to offer any guarantees over the player’s involvement at Elland Road.
Pressed for clarification on the winger’s involvement tomorrow, he replied: “I don’t know, we’ll talk with the doctors and officials afterwards.”
Guardiola’s cautious tone reflects the club’s careful approach to injuries at this crucial stage of the season. With fixtures coming thick and fast and the margins in the title race so fine, City are unlikely to take unnecessary risks. A final decision is expected after further consultation with medical staff.
Ramadan preparations and squad management
City’s preparations this week have also included adjustments for several members of the squad who are observing Ramadan. The holy month requires Muslims to fast between sunrise and sunset, presenting additional considerations for elite athletes competing at the highest level.
Guardiola emphasised that the club’s support structures are in place to help players balance their religious commitments with professional demands.
“They follow this religious tradition and we have good nutritionists who adapt for what the team needs,” he began.
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City’s manager stressed that the players involved are experienced in managing their routines during this period.
“I think they’re used to it, they’re not young and used to playing in this period.
“It’s not their first time and we know how to handle it.
“They’re in touch with the doctors and”
Saturday’s meeting with Leeds presents both opportunity and challenge. Elland Road is known for its intense atmosphere, and Guardiola’s side will need to match their hosts’ energy from the outset.
Yet with confidence flowing and key players edging back towards fitness, City appear well positioned for the task.
