Kyle Walker, Gabriel Martinelli; Man City vs Arsenal

Kyle Walker, Gabriel Martinelli; The highly-anticipated and crucial match between City and Arsenal is approaching, with Arsenal currently leading Liverpool at the top of the standings on goal difference and City just one point behind. However, there is uncertainty regarding player selection for both teams following the international break.

City’s defensive line has been hit with a double blow as both Kyle Walker and John Stones were forced off with injuries while on international duty with England. Walker suffered a tight hamstring during Saturday’s defeat to Brazil, initially believed to be not too serious. However, he will undergo a scan and his availability for the Arsenal match is rated at 50-50. Stones’ situation is less clear, as England manager Southgate mentioned an adductor issue in his groin, and the City defender did not appear comfortable when he had to be substituted early in the game. Stones himself expressed uncertainty about his fitness for the Arsenal match.

Another concern in City’s defense is the fitness of Manuel Akanji, who had to withdraw from Switzerland’s squad due to a knock. Additionally, goalkeeper Ederson is still sidelined with a thigh problem, adding to the reshuffling that Pep Guardiola may have to do in the upcoming match. Moving further up the pitch, Guardiola can hope for a more positive outlook. Erling Haaland, who caused a scare when he was seen limping in training before the break, was able to play twice for Norway.

City teammate Oscar Bobb also featured in those games and even scored against Czech Republic. Furthermore, Kevin De Bruyne, another standout player for City, could make a return. He missed the FA Cup game against Newcastle due to a groin injury and was not called up by Belgium, but he has had time to recover and may be available for selection. In unrelated news, Argentina’s Julian Alvarez played against Costa Rica in Los Angeles during the early hours.