Manchester City could be in for a boost following the international break, with key players potentially returning to action for their clash against Wolves. After a string of injuries, Pep Guardiola’s squad might be looking much stronger when they resume Premier League duties.
Guardiola often uses international breaks as a time to rest, but he’s also keenly aware of the risks they pose to his squad’s fitness. John Stones has revealed that the City manager can get “angry” when players come back injured, but he always encourages them to represent their countries if they are fit.
Stones himself spoke about the pressure that comes with international duty, knowing full well how frustrating it can be for a manager when a player returns unfit: “You know straightaway if he’s [Guardiola] not very happy,” Stones said. He explained that while players like himself are eager to play for their national teams, they are also mindful of how much their club depends on them.
One player hoping to make his return soon is Nathan Ake, who picked up an injury while playing for the Netherlands during the previous international break. Ake has returned to light training and will be looking to increase his workload ahead of City’s match at Molineux. However, Guardiola has stressed that Ake will need a solid run of training sessions before being considered for selection.
Kevin De Bruyne is also edging closer to a comeback after his pelvic issue, which has kept him out of action since the Champions League final. Both he and Ake are expected to be in contention after the international break, though Guardiola has warned they may take some time to regain full fitness.
With injuries piling up and players like Rodri out for the season, City have been operating with a reduced squad. In recent matches, they’ve been forced to name academy players on the bench, including Oscar Bobb, who is sidelined until the new year. Academy graduate Nico O’Reilly has also been stepping up to fill in the gaps, although he recently pulled out of England U-20 duty as a precaution.
With the Premier League race heating up, Guardiola will be hoping to have a full-strength squad as City push forward after the international break.
