Man City reveal Jeremy Doku plan ahead of Sheffield United fixture

Jeremy Doku could make his Manchester City debut against Sheffield United this weekend.

Doku signed for £55.5m from Rennes on Thursday and could make his debut at Bramall Lane. With Pep Guardiola recovering from back surgery and missing the next two fixtures, assistant manager Juanma Lillo will step in and lead the team.

Offering a verdict on new signing Doku, Lillo said that while City will try not to put undue pressure on the 21-year-old, they also have no qualms over playing him as soon as possible – adding that the winger has been signed to improve the squad rather than change the way they play.

“Every time a new player arrives we think they are going to bring something and help the team globally,” Lillo said. “It’s not about him and placing responsibility on him.

“That is the good thing this team has, the idea is to bring players who are better [but will] not modify the team. The team will grow and he will improve us.

“The team is at a good level. He’s a great player, you’ve seen him. He has specific qualities. He can help.”

Lillo added that Doku is in contention to play at Sheffield United, having started the season in Ligue 1 so should be match-fit.

“I said that [not placing responsibility on Doku] because he’s been the last one to arrive. He gathers all the focus, he’s been playing in the French league so he’s fine. He’s doing well.”

Meanwhile, Lillo indicated that Bernardo Silva should return to the squad after missing two games through illness, with the Portuguese returning to full training this week.