Juanma Lillo says ‘exceptional’ Man City player will play this weekend vs Sheffield United

Bernardo Silva has returned to first-team training and could return to action against Sheffield United after missing Manchester City’s last two games.

The 29-year-old, who signed a new one-year contract at the Etihad Stadium earlier this week, has missed Manchester City’s previous two matches against Sevilla and Newcastle United.

Silva was absent for the UEFA Super Cup win in Athens and last weekend’s 1-0 win over Newcastle in the Premier League due to illness, as Manchester City contend with a number of ongoing first-team absences.

Pep Guardiola will be absent from the dugout at Bramall Lane on Sunday when City take on Sheffield United.

The City boss underwent back surgery this week and will not return until after the September international break.

Assistant coach Juanma Lillo will take his place. Speaking to the media on Friday, Lillo confirmed that the ‘exceptional‘ attacker has recovered and is available for selection.

“Perhaps it’s a question for the doctor, but he’s trained fully normally,” the Spanish coach said.

“I don’t think he’s ill and he’s good to go.”

As well as welcoming back the 29-year-old, new Manchester City signing Jeremy Doku could make his debut for the Blues on Sunday, after completing a £55.4 million move from Rennes in France.

The 21-year-old is Manchester City’s third signing of the summer, following the arrival of Croatian pair Mateo Kovacic and Josko Gvardiol.