Pep Guardiola confirms two absentees and three key doubts for Chelsea vs Man City

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has issued the latest on the fitness of his squad ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Chelsea. The Premier League is now underway after Manchester United’s narrow win over Fulham on Friday night.

Chelsea open their account on Sunday against the reigning champions, and they could not have asked for a more difficult opponent to kick off the new season. But anything can happen on the opening day, and City have some absentees and doubts ahead of their trip to Stamford Bridge.

Young star Oscar Bobb has been ruled out for months, with Guardiola confirming: “It was in the training session and unfortunately he had a big impact and is injured. He will have surgery and hopefully he will be well and we welcome him back as soon as possible in three, four months.

“We are so sad for him, but not because he was making an incredible pre-season, because that doesn’t matter, when [the] injury is a long time it is a problem and we’re looking forward to seeing him again as soon as possible. A good recovery as quick as possible and that’s all.”

Elsewhere, Phil Foden, John Stones and Kyle Walker all returned late from Euro 2024 and face a race against time to be available. “I don’t know. Just two, three training sessions. They arrived fit,” guardiola added. “In professional world the players take care even in the holidays. So we’ll see. Today, tomorrow and Sunday we will see the lineup. But I’m pretty sure they are ready maybe not for 90 minutes, maybe yes maybe for a few minutes. Important that everyone is back except Oscar the rest are are okay.”

One player who will not be available is midfield star Rodrigo, who limped off at half-time in the Euro 2024 final. “I don’t know, I didn’t see him yet,” Guardiola said of the Spaniard. “We have to start training, we will see when he moves, his body and how he feels. No chance.”

Guardiola on Chelsea clash

Speaking about the Chelsea clash in general terms, the City boss said: “We prioritise the rest, absolutely. I would love to give even more time, but it is what it is. I demand the best from Sunday against Chelsea. We know we have to take points as soon as possible and when the players are fitter and better physical condition, they have to be ready.

“I don’t know what will happen. Everyone knows we are not in the best conditions but it doesn’t matter, the desire and trying to do well and here control absolutely everything of luck. The vibes of the team is strong and all together doing what you have to do.

“I don’t think there are a lot of teams who right now are perfect. I am pretty sure I learned from my experience in many years that the season is so long. It is important that the players are ready mentally especially and for that they need rest.”