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Manchester City arrive at Anfield this Sunday facing what could prove a season-defining encounter against Liverpool—desperate for three points to keep pace with runaway leaders Arsenal in the Premier League title race.
The Gunners currently sit six points clear at the summit, and defeat for Pep Guardiola’s men would likely end any realistic hopes of reeling them back in during the business end of the campaign. City’s defensive struggles have already cost them valuable ground in recent weeks, and the visit to Merseyside represents a genuine must-win scenario if they’re to salvage their title defence.
However, Guardiola’s preparation for the heavyweight clash has been severely hampered by a mounting injury crisis that has decimated his defensive options at the worst possible time. Speaking at Tuesday’s press conference ahead of the midweek Carabao Cup fixture against Newcastle, the City boss delivered worrying updates on several key players who remain sidelined.
On Rayan Cherki, the Spaniard said
“Have a knock, we will see today how he feels,” said Guardiola.
On the likes of Ruben Dias and Jeremy Doku, the Spaniard said:
“Ruben started to train yesterday and Jeremy not yet.”
It is a lengthy City injury list that also features John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic and Savinho. Kovacic remains out following ankle surgery and is targeting a mid-March comeback
The situation is far bleaker when it comes to Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol, who fractured his tibia during the 1-1 draw with Chelsea last month. The 24-year-old underwent surgery and is now facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, with no return date set but will likely remain out for the reason of the season.
What’s clear is that Guardiola’s side arrive at Anfield on Sunday knowing that they need a win to keep pace in the title race, and that will make them very tricky customers for Arne Slot’s side.
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