Manchester City have issued an official statement confirming that forward Omar Marmoush has sustained a knee injury while on international duty with Egypt, ruling him out of Sunday’s highly anticipated Manchester derby against Ruben Amorim’s United.
Details of the Injury
Marmoush was forced off inside the opening 10 minutes of Egypt’s FIFA World Cup qualifying clash with Burkina Faso. Later images of the striker on crutches raised immediate concerns. Although initial optimism suggested the issue might be minor, scans conducted in Cairo confirmed he would be unavailable for City’s crucial Premier League clash.
The club’s statement read: “Manchester City FC can confirm that Omar Marmoush has sustained a knee injury whilst on international duty with Egypt. Initial results indicate he will not be available for the Manchester derby on Sunday. He will now return to Manchester for further assessment and rehabilitation.”
Impact on Guardiola’s Plans
The setback adds to Pep Guardiola’s growing injury concerns during the September international break. John Stones withdrew from England duty with a muscle issue, while Nico O’Reilly and Rico Lewis left the Under-21s squad. Marmoush’s absence now reduces Guardiola’s attacking options, especially after Jack Grealish’s departure and Jeremy Doku’s gradual return to full fitness.
Since joining in January, Marmoush has impressed with his versatility and ability to link play with Erling Haaland, offering City tactical flexibility across the front line. His absence ahead of consecutive defeats only intensifies pressure on the squad as they prepare for the derby.
Looking Ahead
Manchester City’s medical team will conduct a full evaluation once Marmoush returns to the Etihad Campus. While the hope is for a swift recovery, there are concerns he could miss upcoming UEFA Champions League group stage fixtures, including clashes against Napoli and Arsenal.
In the meantime, Guardiola will look to Oscar Bobb, Phil Foden, and Jeremy Doku to fill the attacking void as City aim to bounce back and regain momentum in what could be a defining period of their season.
FAQs
- What type of injury did Omar Marmoush sustain?
He suffered a knee injury during Egypt’s World Cup qualifier against Burkina Faso.
- Will Marmoush play in the Manchester derby?
No, Manchester City confirmed he will miss the derby against United.
- How long will he be sidelined?
The exact timeframe is not confirmed. Further assessments will take place once he returns to Manchester.
- Who could replace Marmoush in the lineup?
Pep Guardiola is likely to rely on Phil Foden, Jeremy Doku, or Oscar Bobb in attack.
- Could Marmoush miss Champions League games?
Yes, there are fears he could also be unavailable for fixtures against Napoli and Arsenal in October.
Conclusion
Omar Marmoush’s injury comes at a crucial time for Manchester City, stripping Guardiola of an important attacking option just days before the Manchester derby. With key fixtures on the horizon, City supporters will be hopeful that the Egyptian forward’s rehabilitation is swift, allowing him to return in time to play a vital role in the club’s pursuit of silverware this season.
