Manchester City faces third pre-Arsenal fitness setback as Gareth Southgate provides Kyle Walker injury update.

Redaction Willow Austin
Published on 2024-03-24 11:07:14

England manager Gareth Southgate has provided an update on Kyle Walker’s fitness following a hamstring injury sustained on Saturday evening.

The Manchester City captain became Pep Guardiola’s latest injury worry after being forced off against Brazil at Wembley Stadium during the first half of the international friendly. He was replaced in the 20th minute after receiving initial treatment for a hamstring problem.

Walker is now doubtful for England’s friendly against Belgium at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday and could potentially miss Manchester City’s upcoming Premier League match against Arsenal. Guardiola’s team faces Arsenal in a crucial game at the Etihad Stadium next Sunday, where the title race is tight with City, Arsenal, and Liverpool closely competing.

City’s defense of their treble is under pressure with upcoming fixtures against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals and an Emirates FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea. They also have matches against Aston Villa and Crystal Palace in the Premier League within a jam-packed schedule.

Walker could add to Manchester City’s injury concerns ahead of the Arsenal match, with Ederson and Kevin De Bruyne already sidelined due to fitness issues.

Southgate, speaking after England’s loss to Brazil, stated: “We don’t know the severity of Walker’s injury. He hasn’t had many injuries, so he’s uncertain whether it’s just tightness. I suspect it may be more than that, but we’ll have more information in the next 24 to 36 hours.”

De Bruyne pulled out of international duty due to a groin injury, while Ederson has been out since the draw with Liverpool at Anfield due to a muscular issue. Jack Grealish is also dealing with fitness problems and was left out of the Three Lions squad due to recent injuries.