Man City Back in Training as They Prepare for Tough Champions League Test Against Sporting CP
Manchester City is preparing for their fourth Champions League matchup against Sporting CP with a training session this morning as they look to rebound after a disappointing weekend.
Coming off their first Premier League loss of the season, a 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium, City is aiming to reset. The Cherries took full advantage, outplaying the usually dominant side, and Pep Guardiola now faces the challenge of getting his squad back in form to face a strong Sporting CP team.
Sporting’s manager, Ruben Amorim, has been linked to Manchester United as his next destination, despite previously being on City’s radar as a potential successor to Guardiola. With Amorim on the brink of departure, Sporting CP will be highly motivated to leave a mark in this crucial game.
This morning, City held an intense training session. Reporter Joe Bray observed that Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji participated, a positive sign given their physical struggles in the match against Bournemouth. Guardiola praised both defenders, saying they made “incredible” efforts to play despite not being in ideal condition.
However, the injury list remains a concern. Missing from today’s training were Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Jack Grealish. Guardiola has confirmed that Dias is sidelined until after the international break, with Stones likely to miss the next two matches. Grealish, who has already missed three games, is expected to be out until mid-November as well.
In a bit of encouraging news, Savinho was spotted in training on Sunday, and the Brazilian could be involved against Sporting.
Facing Sporting CP Will Test City’s Defense
Despite City’s injury woes, they enter the match as favorites, but they know it won’t be a straightforward challenge. City’s defense has been shaky this season, with clean sheets proving elusive. Sporting, under Amorim, has demonstrated exceptional attacking prowess, scoring 35 goals in 10 league games.
Sporting CP in 2024/25 vs. Man City in 2024/25
- Games played: 15 | 12
- Wins: 14 | 8
- Draws: 1 | 3
- Losses: 0 | 1
- Goals scored: 45 | 33
In addition to their league success, Sporting has added five more goals in cup competitions and netted three against FC Porto in the Supertaca.
City will need to be particularly cautious of Viktor Gyokeres, who has been in lethal form, scoring 20 goals in just 16 appearances this season. Containing the Swedish striker will be essential if City hopes to secure a win.
