The increasingly congested football calendar, filled with club competitions, international tournaments, and pre-season fixtures, has made it challenging for players to take the breaks they need. As the new season approaches, Manchester City is feeling the impact of this packed schedule.
Ahead of the opening weekend, key players like Phil Foden, John Stones, and Kyle Walker have just returned to training after their summer commitments. Despite the limited time off, they are expected to be available for selection in City's crucial opening match against Chelsea.
City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledged the difficulty of providing his players with adequate rest under such a demanding schedule. While the team would have preferred to allow more recovery time, Guardiola emphasized the need to be "ready" for the challenge that Chelsea will pose on Sunday.
Recommended For You
"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 in better physical condition, they have to be ready," said Guardiola to reporters in the pre-game conference.
A positive note for the Manchester-based side is the availability of their players. Guardiola confirmed most of them will be fit to start this week. However, he went on to reveal that there is "˜no chance', that the team's midfield anchor Rodri will play against Chelsea.
Another cause for concern for the side will be the injury of youngster Oscar Bobb. The 21-year-old was mighty impressive during pre-season and the manager had confirmed he was impressed by what he had seen. Unfortunately, he got injured during a training session and is expected to be out for three to four months.
"It was in the training session and unfortunately he had a big impact and was injured. He will have surgery and hopefully, he will be well and we welcome him back as soon as possible in three, or 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," he concluded.