Pep Guardiola has provided updates on Manchester City’s squad ahead of their upcoming clash with Chelsea.
While Jack Grealish and Josko Gvardiol are confirmed absentees, Bernardo Silva’s availability hinges on a late fitness assessment.
Grealish, who sustained a foot injury during the FC Copenhagen match, will miss out, while Silva’s status remains uncertain after he was substituted in the second half due to a knock.
On a positive note, Guardiola mentioned the return of Mateo Kovacic and Sergio Gomez to training. However, Gvardiol is deemed unfit to participate in the upcoming fixture.
He told reporters on Friday: “Jack [Grealish], I think, will not be ready. I don’t know [his condition]. I need to speak with the doctors. I only know he is not able to play tomorrow. Bernardo [Silva], we will assess today in the afternoon training session. [Mateo] Kova [Kovacic] is training and Sergio [Gomez] is as well. The rest we will see.”
On Tuesday, following City’s 3-1 Champions League win over Copenhagen, Guardiola added that Gvardiol would be out for “two or three weeks” with an ankle ligament issue.
Silva has emerged as a pivotal figure for City, showcasing his importance with eight goals and four assists across all competitions this season. His potential absence would undoubtedly pose a significant setback for the team.
However, the return of Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne from injury provides a boost. Moreover, Guardiola’s side has demonstrated resilience in managing without key players in the past.
Should Silva be unable to feature against Chelsea, Guardiola’s City will aim for his return in subsequent fixtures. They will look to have him back for the home match against Brentford on Tuesday or possibly for the away encounter with Bournemouth on February 24th.