Oleksandr Zinchenko and Ilkay Gundogan have both returned to training in what will provide Pep Guardiola and Manchester City a significant boost following the international break ahead of their first fixture back in action against Burnley at the Etihad this Saturday at 3 pm BST.
The 30-year-old German veteran had missed games against Wycombe, Chelsea, PSG and Liverpool with a groin strain. Guardiola will no doubt be delighted to be able to call upon him again, but he may have a fight on his hands for his place back as Bernardo Silva has impressed of late.
Ukrainian midfielder/City left-back has struggled for fitness this season and has been sidelined for several weeks with a calf issue. This appears to be behind him, however, as like Gundogan, he was pictured in training in preparation for the Burnley game. Also, like Gundogan, he may find it tough to force his way back into contention as Joao Cancelo has excelled at left-back this season so far.
In other positive news for the Premier League champions, many of the club's European internationals have also returned to training following their efforts over the international break, with the likes of John Stones, Kyle Walker, Kevin De Bruyne, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva, Aymeric Laporte, and Nathan Ake pictured by club photographers. It's likely the likes of Riyad Mahrez, Rodri, Joao Cancelo, and Raheem Sterling were also involved.
Unfortunately, City will be without Ferran Torres, who has suffered a fractured right foot away on international duty.
Photos courtesy of Manchester City
In other news, City’s Brazilian duo face a race to make the matchday squad. Gabriel Jesus and Ederson are just two of the Premier League’s South American contingent hopping on a private jet immediately after their final round of World Cup qualifiers in the early hours of Friday morning, according to Adrian Kajumba and Jack Gaughan of Mail Sport.
City, United and Liverpool have all reportedly come together to cover the cost of the travel to ensure the players have the best chance at making it back in time. The flight will of course be socially distanced and City’s players will not be required to quarantine upon arrival.
Written by: @CityReportBen
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