Guardiola Optimistic Over Ait-Nouri Recovery After Early Ankle Setback

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed optimism that Rayan Ait-Nouri could recover in time for the club’s next fixture

Ait-Nouri, signed from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer, has been influential in several of City’s brighter displays
and impressed at the FIFA Club World Cup. Post-match, Guardiola said: “I didn’t speak with the doctors yet. It looks like the ankle…
we have seven days, hopefully it can be recovered.”

Guardiola acknowledged City lacked composure in possession, citing missed “simple things” and a need for continuity in passing.
He reaffirmed his commitment to an aggressive defensive line despite conceding to Brennan Johnson, noting the approach will continue with adjustments where necessary.

Discussing new arrivals, Guardiola highlighted Rayan Cherki’s creativity in tight spaces and indicated that players such as Nico and Tijjani Reijnders
have shown progress in training as the squad evolves for the coming seasons.

FAQs

• Nature of the injury? A left-ankle knock; further assessment pending.
• Expected return? Guardiola is hopeful the seven-day window aids recovery.
• Tactical stance? City will maintain an aggressive defensive line with situational tweaks.
• New signings’ adaptation? Guardiola urges patience as they adjust to the Premier League and City’s structure.

Conclusion

While awaiting medical confirmation, Guardiola’s tone suggests cautious optimism regarding Ait-Nouri’s short-term availability.
City’s focus remains on restoring fluency in possession while integrating new signings without compromising their established identity.