Here’s the rewritten article with an interesting twist:
Man City March On, But Injury Woes Loom: Who’s In, Who’s Out for the Newcastle Clash?
Fresh off their Carabao Cup victory over Watford, Manchester City find themselves navigating a growing list of injuries as they prepare for their crucial Premier League showdown against Newcastle. The Blues avoided an upset against the Championship side on Tuesday, but the focus is now firmly on the treatment room, where some of City’s key players could miss out on Saturday’s big game.
Despite Pep Guardiola making several changes for the Watford match, City wasted no time taking control. Just five minutes into the game, Jeremy Doku fired them into the lead, and Matheus Nunes doubled it before halftime. Watford’s Tom Ince struck late to give his side hope, but City comfortably held on to secure their place in the next round of the competition.
Now, with the Premier League race heating up, City turns their attention to Eddie Howe’s Newcastle, but not without concerns over key injuries. Here’s a breakdown of the latest from the Etihad treatment room as City prepares for their early kick-off at St. James’ Park.
Rodri – Knee Injury
The towering presence in City’s midfield, Rodri, suffered a knee injury during last week’s battle with Arsenal, and the prognosis is still unclear. Initial reports have been worrying, with fears the Spanish midfielder could miss a significant portion of the season. Guardiola provided an update, though it remains vague:
Guardiola says: “We are still waiting for the decision of the doctors… when we know it, the club or myself will announce it. Unfortunately, he was injured, but right now I couldn’t tell you.”
While the exact diagnosis remains pending, Guardiola hinted that it could be a long road to recovery, but there’s hope it might not be as bad as first feared.
Potential return date: Unknown
Kevin De Bruyne – Thigh Injury
Missing from the Arsenal clash, Kevin De Bruyne has been sidelined with a thigh problem, and City fans are anxious to see their Belgian playmaker back in action. The injury doesn’t seem too serious, but his status for Newcastle remains uncertain.
Guardiola says: “I don’t think it will be long… I don’t know for Newcastle, but it won’t be long. [He has] discomfort in his legs.”
Fans may need to wait just a little longer, with De Bruyne likely targeting a return for the home game against Fulham.
Potential return date: Fulham (H) – 5th October
Oscar Bobb – Broken Leg
Young talent Oscar Bobb suffered a significant blow during a training session, fracturing his leg in a freak accident. The 20-year-old has already undergone surgery, but he faces a lengthy recovery.
Guardiola says: “It was in the training session. Unfortunately, he had a big impact and got injured. He is having surgery this afternoon… he will be back in 3-4 months.”
While it’s a harsh setback for Bobb, City fans will be hoping for his swift and smooth recovery.
Potential return date: Unknown
Nathan Ake – Hamstring Injury
Dutch defender Nathan Ake has also found himself sidelined with a hamstring issue, something that’s becoming all too familiar for City every time he returns from international duty.
Guardiola says: “We are unlucky with Nathan – every time he goes [to play for Netherlands], he comes back injured.”
The versatile defender is expected to miss a few more weeks, but could make his return in time for City’s clash against Wolves after the next international break.
Potential return date: Wolves (A) – 20th October
Kaden Braithwaite – Cramp
In brighter news, teenage sensation Kaden Braithwaite, who made his senior debut against Watford, had to be substituted due to cramp late in the game. However, this is not expected to be a serious issue, and he should be available for selection on Saturday if needed.
While Guardiola would have feared picking up further injuries in the cup, City largely escaped unscathed against Watford. But as they head into another demanding Premier League test, the absence of stars like Rodri and De Bruyne could loom large. Can City’s depth carry them through once again? Time will tell.
