-
Ruben Dias is currently out due to a hamstring injury he sustained prior to the Carabao Cup final in March.
-
Josko Gvardiol is on the mend from a tibial fracture, while John Stones is also uncertain to play.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shared updates on the fitness of Nico O’Reilly and Ruben Dias ahead of Sunday’s clash against Arsenal.
City has the opportunity to narrow Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League to three points after capitalizing on the Gunners’ recent 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth by securing a 3-0 win away at Chelsea.
The Blues are on an impressive run of form, facing Mikel Arteta’s team after victories in three consecutive matches against them, including wins in the Carabao Cup final and the FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool.
Manchester City faces a significant defensive injury setback before the showdown with Arsenal.
Guardiola’s squad showcased a commanding performance in the second half at Stamford Bridge last week, with goals from O’Reilly, Marc Guehi, and Jeremy Doku securing a critical victory that enhances City’s hopes for a seventh league title under Guardiola.
Unfortunately, City experienced a setback in London when O’Reilly left the match with a hamstring injury and was replaced by Rayan Ait-Nouri. Dias also missed the game due to his own hamstring issue sustained before the Carabao Cup final on March 22.
In a press conference on Friday, Guardiola confirmed the status of O’Reilly and Dias for the forthcoming match against Arsenal. “Ruben (Dias) is not ready yet, but Nico (O’Reilly) is fine,” the manager stated.
It remains to be seen if O’Reilly will be fit to start or if Ait-Nouri will retain his spot at left-back against Arsenal, having impressed in his previous appearance.
Predicted Starting Line-Up: Manchester City vs Arsenal (Premier League)
Guehi and Abdukodir Khusanov are expected to maintain their starting positions at center-back, as Guardiola is likely to stick with a consistent lineup following a successful outing in the Premier League recently.
Manchester City must secure a victory against Arsenal to challenge the Gunners’ pursuit of their first league title in 22 years, although City still holds a game in hand over the league leaders.
Josko Gvardiol continues to be sidelined as he recovers from a right tibial fracture, and John Stones is also a doubt due to a calf injury incurred during the recent international break. Mateo Kovacic came off the bench in the Chelsea match and is likely to have a similar role on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium.