Manchester City head into a demanding run of fixtures with some welcome fitness news, as Pep Guardiola prepares his side for a Premier League trip to Sunderland.
While City will still be without several key figures, the possible of Jeremy Doku and Rodri return from injury offers encouragement at a crucial stage of the season.
With matches coming thick and fast across domestic and European competitions, Guardiola’s options have been stretched in recent weeks. However, signs are emerging that the worst of City’s injury concerns may be easing, even if the squad remains far from full strength.
Doku and Rodri return from injury as City navigate packed schedule
Jeremy Doku is pushing to make his comeback after spending the past few weeks on the sidelines. The Belgian winger suffered a muscle problem during Manchester City’s 2-1 Champions League victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, an injury that forced him to miss a run of important games.
Since then, Doku has been absent for Premier League fixtures against Crystal Palace, West Ham and Nottingham Forest, leaving Guardiola with fewer attacking options during a congested period. His pace and directness have been sorely missed, particularly in matches where City have faced deep defensive blocks.
Now, there is growing optimism that Doku could be included in the squad for the trip to the Stadium of Light. His return would come at a timely moment, as City face 10 matches in the space of just 32 days across four different competitions.
Guardiola has frequently highlighted the importance of squad depth, and any addition back to fitness is likely to be carefully managed.
Another significant boost comes in midfield, where Rodri return from injury and he’s also expected to be involved again. The Spain international has been sidelined for around two months with a hamstring injury, a lengthy absence that disrupted City’s rhythm in the middle of the pitch.
Rodri made his return to the matchday squad against Nottingham Forest, signalling the end of a frustrating spell on the treatment table.
Having trained with the squad, the midfielder is set to be available once more on New Year’s Day. His presence is crucial, given his influence on City’s ability to control games and dictate tempo.
Guardiola is likely to take a cautious approach, easing him back into action while balancing the demands of the calendar.
City’s relentless schedule leaves little room for error. Competing on multiple fronts has been a hallmark of Guardiola’s tenure, but it also places a heavy physical burden on his players.
Doku and Rodri return from injury does not solve every problem, but it does provide greater flexibility as City attempt to maintain consistency.
Absentees remain as City chase Arsenal at the summit
Despite the positive news, Manchester City will still travel to Sunderland without several first-team players.
John Stones remains unavailable due to his ongoing injury issues, with the defender yet to return to full training. His absence has limited Guardiola’s options in defence, where versatility and rotation are often key.
Oscar Bobb is also ruled out, continuing his recovery from his own fitness setback. The young winger has impressed when called upon this season, but he will not be ready in time for the Premier League clash in the north-east.
In addition, City are missing two players due to international commitments. Omar Marmoush and Rayan Ait-Nouri are both away representing their countries at the Africa Cup of Nations.
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Their continued absence further reduces Guardiola’s choices, particularly as the competition coincides with a critical phase of the domestic campaign.
Guardiola will hope that the return of Doku means he is left without only four players for the Sunderland match, rather than a longer list. Keeping injuries to a minimum is essential as City aim to stay in touch with Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table.
The title race remains finely balanced, but City are currently chasing. Arsenal underlined their credentials on Tuesday night with an emphatic 4-1 win over third-placed Aston Villa. That result moved the league leaders five points clear, albeit having played one game more than City.
For Guardiola’s side, there is little margin for slip-ups. Every fixture carries added importance, especially against teams lower down the table where points are expected.
Sunderland, however, will see the visit of the Sky y as an opportunity to test themselves and potentially disrupt the title race.
