Guardiola Speaks Out on International Duty Injuries
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his frustration with the lack of communication from international managers regarding the physical state of players returning from duty. This comes after Kyle Walker suffered a knee injury during England’s 2-0 Nations League win over Finland, rendering him unavailable for City’s 2-1 victory over Wolves.
A Growing Concern for Club Managers
Guardiola believes that more dialogue between club and international managers could help prevent such injuries. He cited an incident involving John Stones last season, where the player picked up an injury in a friendly match against Belgium, leaving him unfit for City’s crucial Premier League tie against Arsenal. “I was never so angry like that moment,” Guardiola admitted. “It was a friendly game, and we were battling for the title.”
The Importance of Communication
The City boss emphasized the need for better communication between club and international managers. “Before, when I was a player, the national manager would call the club manager, but now nobody talks,” he said. Guardiola did acknowledge that some international managers, like Ronald Koeman, do maintain contact due to personal relationships.
Injury Updates Ahead of Champions League Tie
As City prepares to face Sparta Prague in the Champions League, Guardiola provided updates on his squad’s injury situation. Kevin De Bruyne will miss the game as he continues his recovery, despite returning to training. “He doesn’t feel completely fine, and Kevin is not 22 years old anymore,” Guardiola explained. “He has to be fit completely for his football.”
A Cautious Approach
Guardiola is taking a cautious approach with De Bruyne’s return, emphasizing the importance of the player feeling fully comfortable before returning to action. “If he doesn’t feel comfortable, he cannot express his potential,” Guardiola said. “He still doesn’t feel good, so we’ll take our time. He has to be 100% ready.”
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