9 players that will miss Manchester City FA Cup clash against Huddersfield Town

9 players that will miss Manchester City FA Cup clash against Huddersfield Town

9 players that will miss Manchester City FA Cup clash against Huddersfield Town

Hassan Abdulsalam 07:58 - 06.01.2024

Manchester City is facing a challenging scenario, with potentially nine players unavailable for their FA Cup third-round match against Huddersfield Town this Sunday at the Etihad Stadium.

They grapple with many injuries and unexpected challenges as Manchester City prepares to face Huddersfield Town in the FA Cup third-round showdown.

In this pulse sports update, we delve into the latest developments concerning player availability, including a boost from returning stars, lingering injury concerns, and the impact of illness and personal bereavement, as reported by Sports Mole.

Injury Woes for Manchester City Ahead of FA Cup Clash

Manchester City is facing a challenging scenario, with potentially nine players unavailable for their FA Cup third-round match against Huddersfield Town this Sunday at the Etihad Stadium.

Boost in the Camp: De Bruyne, Haaland, and Doku Return to Training

In some positive news for the Citizens, star players Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland, and Jeremy Doku have returned to training this week following injuries. De Bruyne, who has been sidelined since August with a hamstring injury, made his comeback as an unused substitute in City's recent 2-0 win over Sheffield United in the Premier League.

Erling Haaland, Man City forward | Imago

Haaland and Doku, who were dealing with foot and muscle injuries, have also progressed in their recoveries. However, manager Pep Guardiola remains still determining their availability for the upcoming cup tie.

Guardiola updated the trio during a press conference, stating, "They are ready; they have been with us for the last two or three training sessions. Jeremy feels excellent, Kevin as well. Kevin was out for a long time, so we had to be patient and carefully manage his minutes. Erling is making progress with his bone injury and is feeling good. We hope to see them back on the pitch soon, but their availability for Sunday or our next match against Newcastle remains uncertain."

John Stones Still on the Sidelines

Defender John Stones is still recovering from an ankle injury sustained over a week ago against his former club, Everton. Guardiola revealed that Stones has yet to return to training, leaving his return date uncertain.

"He's not training with us," said Guardiola. "He's getting better but not training with us. I don't know when he'll be back."

Heartfelt Condolences: Rodri's Family Bereavement

Star midfielder Rodri will be absent from Sunday's match as he has suffered a family bereavement. Guardiola expressed his condolences, saying, "Rodri's grandma passed away yesterday, and he will not be here. Family issues are most important; hopefully, he will return soon. Family is the most important thing."

Illness Strikes: Bernardo Silva, Scott Carson, Kalvin Phillips, and Matheus Nunes in Doubt

Adding to City's challenges, illness has affected several key players. Bernardo Silva, Scott Carson, Kalvin Phillips, and Matheus Nunes have emerged as doubts for the Huddersfield clash. Guardiola acknowledged their health issues, making it uncertain whether they will be fit to play.

"Four players are out. Rodri, unfortunately, his grandma passed away yesterday. He will not be here," said Guardiola. "Family issues are most important. Hopefully, he will be back soon.

Rodri Hernandez defensive midfield of Manchester City and Spain and Mateo Kovacic central midfield of Manchester City and Croatia celebrates with the trophy after winning the final of the FIFA Club World Cup || Image credit: Imago

Family is most important. Bernardo, Scotty, Kalvin, and Matheus Nunes are suffering."

Manchester City's Optimism Despite Adversity

Despite the significant number of potential absentees, Manchester City enters Sunday's game with high spirits, riding a wave of success with six wins and one draw in their last seven games.

As the reigning FA Cup winners, they aim to kick off 2024 with a victory against Huddersfield, who currently sit 21st in the Championship and have lost three of their last four matches.

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