Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola provides injury update on Kevin de Bruyne and Nathan Ake ahead of Fulham clash
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Kevin de Bruyne and Nathan Ake are not fit for their clash against Fulham. They will host the Cottagers in the Premier League on Saturday, October 5.
The Cityzens have been dealt with some major injury issues this season. Oscar Bobb fractured his leg and will remain out this year while Rodri is out for this season after suffering an ACL injury. Meanwhile, Nathan Ake has made just two appearances and Kevin de Bruyne has made six this season.
All of them remain out of action as Manchester City host Fulham on Saturday. Guardiola said in his pre-match press conference (via City Xtra):
"Except Nathan [Ake], Kevin [De Bruyne], and of course, Rodri, and Oscar [Bobb], the rest are fine..."
When asked if De Bruyne is close to full fitness and could travel with the Belgium national team for the international break, Guardiola said:
"For tomorrow he's not ready... How can he go [with Belgium] when he didn't play one game [for #ManCity since injury]? I never understood that. But, anyway. He cannot play with us, he cannot play with Belgium..."
De Bruyne, 33, has made six appearances across competitions for Manchester City this season, scoring one goal and providing one assist.
Pep Guardiola responds to Manchester City fans' banner for the Fulham clash
As per City Xtra, there is set to be a banner for Pep Guardiola at the Etihad ahead of Manchester City's clash against Fulham on Saturday. It's being organized by 'The 1984 Group' in connection with The 93:20 Podcast and will read 'Pep Guardiola, we want you to stay' in his native Catalan language.
The Spaniard was asked about the banner in a pre-match press conference and he answered:
“They have to bring me the bill; I will pay for the banner! I don’t want them to spend money for that reason. What can I say?! Thank you so much! I fell in love since the first day I came and was here. What is going to happen [with his future] is going to happen.”
Guardiola's contract with Manchester City is set to expire next summer and there has been plenty of speculation about his future.
The Spaniard was appointed City's manager in 2016 and has led them to six Premier League titles, including the last four. He's also won one UEFA Champions League and two FA Cups, among numerous other honors.