Manchester City will face Sparta Prague in the Champions League without key players Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Rodri, and Oscar Bobb, all sidelined due to injuries. The quartet was also absent during City’s recent victory over Wolves. While Rodri and Bobb are set for extended spells out, there had been optimism that De Bruyne and Walker could return soon. However, Pep Guardiola confirmed in a press conference on Tuesday that neither will be available for the upcoming match.
Walker sustained his injury while on duty with England, and De Bruyne has been out since September following an issue during City’s 0-0 draw against Inter Milan. Guardiola emphasized that both players will be carefully managed as they recover, with no rush to get them back on the field prematurely.
De Bruyne’s injury history has become a growing concern, and Guardiola stressed the need for patience. “It’s not a big issue, but he doesn’t feel completely fine, and Kevin is not 22 years old anymore,” Guardiola admitted. “He needs to be fully fit to play his best football. If he’s not comfortable, he can’t reach his full potential.”
Guardiola also revealed that De Bruyne is making progress but isn’t quite ready yet. “He’s training a little better, but he told me he still doesn’t feel right. He needs to take his time to be 100%.”
Regarding Walker’s condition, Guardiola was more reserved, simply stating he was unsure when the defender would be ready to return from his knee injury. In Walker’s absence, young talent Rico Lewis will continue to fill in on the right side of the defense.
Meanwhile, City had some positive news with the return of Nathan Ake, who made it back into the squad for the Wolves match. Manuel Akanji, who had been a doubt for the game, was also fit enough to take a place on the bench.
