Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a full fitness update on his squad ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium. The game comes at a critical moment for the Blues, who are looking to bounce back from consecutive defeats against Tottenham and Brighton that have left them 13th in the table after three matches.
Rodri Returns, But Injury Worries Persist
Rodri made his long-awaited return before the international break, featuring in the 2-1 defeat to Brighton. However, Guardiola will still have to navigate a series of fresh injury setbacks across the squad.
Omar Marmoush Ruled Out
Omar Marmoush suffered a thigh injury on international duty with Egypt, ruling him out of Sunday’s derby. Guardiola confirmed in Friday’s press conference:
“He has to make the last tests, but a few weeks I think. Before or after the next international break, he will be ready.”
The absence of the 26-year-old forward could open the door for Savinho or Jérémy Doku to start on the left wing against United.
Defensive Updates
- John Stones – A doubt for Sunday after withdrawing from the England squad with a muscle problem. Guardiola described it as “not a big, big issue” but admitted Stones remains uncertain.
- Joško Gvardiol – Now back from injury and available for selection in the derby.
- Rayan Aït-Nouri – Sidelined again after suffering an injury, despite featuring against Brighton.
Midfield and Attack
- Rayan Cherki – Remains unavailable after picking up an injury in training before the Brighton defeat.
- Mateo Kovačić – Back in training following Achilles surgery but still some way off from match fitness.
- Phil Foden – Fully fit and available for Sunday’s clash.
Crucial Derby Context
Manchester City will be looking to reset following the international break, with Guardiola hoping his squad can regain focus ahead of a pivotal run of games, including fixtures against Napoli and Arsenal. With Manchester United boosted by City’s recent struggles, the Etihad Stadium is set for a tense and high-stakes encounter.
FAQs
- Who is ruled out of the Manchester derby?
Omar Marmoush, Rayan Cherki, and Rayan Aït-Nouri are confirmed absentees. Mateo Kovačić is also not expected to feature.
- Which players are doubtful?
John Stones is a major doubt due to a muscle problem.
- Who has returned to fitness?
Rodri and Joško Gvardiol are back in contention, while Phil Foden is fully fit.
- What did Guardiola say about Marmoush?
He confirmed the forward will be out for “a few weeks,” likely returning before or after the next international break.
- When and where is the derby being played?
The Manchester derby will take place on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 4:30pm (UK time).
Conclusion
Pep Guardiola faces a challenging selection puzzle ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derby, with key absences in attack and defence. While Rodri and Gvardiol’s returns provide a boost, the loss of Marmoush and doubts over Stones could complicate City’s preparations. With United likely to target City’s recent vulnerabilities, Guardiola will rely on depth, tactical flexibility, and the home crowd to inspire a return to winning ways.
