When Manchester City faces Newcastle United on Saturday night, they aim to capitalize on being the only top-four side in action this weekend.
A victory over Newcastle could propel Pep Guardiola’s team to second place in the Premier League standings, surpassing Aston Villa. The trip to St. James’ Park, where City suffered a loss earlier in the Carabao Cup, presents a challenging test.
After a lackluster period at the end of November and the beginning of December, City has regained momentum, winning seven out of eight games.
The return of key players from injury further strengthens their campaign. Kevin De Bruyne made his anticipated comeback from injury in the FA Cup against Huddersfield Town last Saturday, signaling a crucial addition for the second half of the season. However, Guardiola clarified that De Bruyne is unlikely to start against Newcastle, emphasizing a gradual reintroduction plan.
Jeremy Doku, who scored against Huddersfield, has also returned to the lineup after overcoming a muscle issue. Guardiola may opt to postpone his starting lineup appearance to prevent further risks.
The eagerly awaited return of Erling Haaland is anticipated by City supporters, with the striker resuming first-team training after recovering from a foot ailment. Guardiola’s press conference on Friday is expected to shed light on Haaland’s availability. The Norwegian striker’s absence since the defeat at Aston Villa in early December has been felt, and his return could boost City’s bid to reclaim the top spot.
John Stones will miss the match due to an ankle injury sustained against Everton, while Manuel Akanji’s availability hinges on the severity of a knock from the previous weekend. Bernardo Silva and Kalvin Phillips, sidelined due to illness in the Huddersfield victory, may feature in the matchday roster this weekend.
As the January transfer window unfolds, speculation surrounds potential additions to Manchester City’s squad. Having secured Jeremy Doku as the latest signing, City acquired Mateo Kovacic and Josko Gvardiol from Chelsea and RB Leipzig during the summer transfer window. Matheus Nunes joined from Wolves on deadline day.
Departures include Aymeric Laporte and Riyad Mahrez to Saudi Arabia, Cole Palmer’s unexpected move to Chelsea, and Treble winner Ilkay Gundogan’s transfer to Barcelona.
The ongoing dynamics in the transfer market, combined with the return of key players from injury, shape the narrative for Manchester City as they seek to maintain their winning form and contend for top honors in the second half of the season.
