Manchester City return from the international break knowing momentum is slipping.
A frustrating defeat at Brighton left Pep Guardiola’s side short on confidence, and with a demanding run of fixtures on the horizon, clarity over fitness has never been more important.
The good news is that no fewer than eight players rejoined first-team training this week ahead of the Manchester derby.
Among them were Phil Foden, Josko Gvardiol, Kalvin Phillips, and Rico Lewis, all pushing to feature against United.
Even Abdukodir Khusanov, who had pulled out of international duty, is back with the group.
However, Rayan Cherki is sidelined for two months, while Omar Marmoush picked up a knee injury with Egypt that rules him out of the derby.
John Stones is also touch-and-go after a muscle issue forced him out of England duty. Guardiola explained on Friday:
“Omar is injured from Egypt. John Stones as well is a doubt. [It’s] not a big issue, but he’s a doubt for Sunday.”
The Catalan coach must also manage midfield gaps, with Mateo Kovacic unlikely to return before October.
Yet perhaps the biggest decision is in goal. James Trafford has featured so far, but Sunday could be the stage for a very different figure.
Deadline day brought a marquee arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma and now the question lingers whether the Manchester derby is the right moment for his Premier League debut.
Guardiola revealed:
“I met [him] on Wednesday. We make a good chat. Thursday was training – I was in my office so I did not see him. The comments are really good.”
When asked if Gianluigi Donnarumma would start against United, Guardiola’s answer was brief but telling: “We’ll see.”
However, Manchester United manager has already revealed who he will pick in goal between Senne Lammens and Altay Bayindir.
All eyes will be on the Etihad. With Manchester City trailing their rivals in the table and searching for stability, the goalkeeper’s gloves could define much more than just one game.
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