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Published on 2024-01-25 13:44:27
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has given an update on the fitness of Erling Haaland, John Stones, and Manuel Akanji as the treble-winners prepare for their FA Cup fourth-round tie against Tottenham Hotspur.
The match will take place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where Manchester City has struggled in previous visits, failing to win or score in their last five encounters.
After a recent warm-weather training camp in Abu Dhabi, Manchester City will face Tottenham in their first match since defeating Newcastle United in the Premier League.
Kevin De Bruyne made a promising return during the win over Newcastle, and now Erling Haaland and John Stones have also returned to training ahead of the FA Cup clash.
De Bruyne, who has been out for five months due to a hamstring injury, could potentially make his first start in the upcoming FA Cup match.
However, Erling Haaland, who has missed the last nine matches due to a foot injury, is not yet ready to return.
Guardiola confirmed that Haaland trained during the recent trip to the Middle East but will not be available for the Spurs clash. The Norwegian striker is targeting a return against Burnley in midweek.
“He is still not ready, but he is close,” said Guardiola.
“Training camp was good [in Abu Dhabi] and he trained here the last few days. He’s not perfect.”
Guardiola also provided updates on center-back pair John Stones and Manuel Akanji. While Stones is expected to make a return and be included in the matchday squad for the Tottenham match, Akanji will remain sidelined.
Additionally, Ederson is available for selection after recovering from an injury sustained during the match against Newcastle.
Guardiola’s comments suggest that Manchester City will be returning to full strength as they look to defend their FA Cup title.
The coach’s updates on the fitness of key players provide an insight into the team’s readiness for the upcoming match and the ongoing season.
Despite the challenges faced at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in previous encounters, Manchester City will be aiming to reverse their fortunes and continue their pursuit of silverware in the FA Cup.
Read Original article on City Xtra
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