Manchester City welcome Brentford to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon but will be without Kyle Walker due to injury.
The 32-year-old has been sidelined since early-October with a groin problem that led to him undergoing surgery, but Pep Guardiola revealed in Friday’s pre-match press conference that he’s still not recovered. He said: “Kyle, (is) not yet (ready).”
Man City v Brentford: What will the outcome be?
Man City to win
Draw
Brentford to win
Walker picked up the injury in Manchester City’s 6-3 win over Manchester United and had to be withdrawn by Pep Guardiola before half time. He’s since missed 10 games across the board.
Guardiola isn’t short of options in Walker’s stead with Joao Cancelo, John Stones, Manuel Akanji and Rico Lewis at his disposal, but the 32-year-old is hard to replace.
He’s made seven appearances in all competitions this season, giving away less fouls (0.3 per game) than Manuel Akanji (1.1), Ruben Dias (0.8), Joao Cancelo (0.6) and John Stones (0.4). Only Rodri (92.3) has averaged more passes per game than Walker (81.7) too.
Walker’s World Cup chances looked in jeopardy as he was unlikely to feature in the group stages for England while he recovered, but Gareth Southgate selected the 32-year-old nevertheless.
Guardiola added: “It’s a decision for Kyle and Southgate (the decision to select him) – 100% their decision. I am not involved. After Saturday, the players belong to the national teams. I am not worried.”
Vital Man City don’t believe Walker will be at the Etihad beyond 2024 due to his advancing age and history of injuries, so this could be his final major tournament on the international stage too.
After Brentford, City’s next game is against Liverpool in the EFL Cup fourth round on December 20.
In other news, Fabrizio Romano gives contract update on Rico Lewis
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