Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola faces potential selection headaches ahead of Wednesday's crucial Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle United, with key forward Rayan Cherki emerging as a significant injury doubt.
Cherki's Fitness Race Against Time
The French attacker sustained an injury during Manchester City's recent Premier League encounter with Tottenham Hotspur, casting uncertainty over his availability for the midweek cup clash. Cherki, who has been in impressive scoring form, netted in City's 2-0 first-leg victory against Newcastle and has found the back of the net in his last two consecutive matches.
Additional Squad Concerns for Guardiola
Beyond Cherki's situation, Manchester City will definitely be without defender Marc Guehi, who is ineligible for the Carabao Cup fixture. The defensive line is further depleted with Ruben Dias remaining sidelined through injury.
In attacking areas, Jeremy Doku continues his recovery and is unlikely to feature against Newcastle, with reports suggesting the Belgian winger may not be fit in time for Sunday's important Premier League encounter with Liverpool either.
Guardiola's Cup Ambitions and Squad Updates
Pep Guardiola, speaking ahead of the match, emphasised the importance of the competition as he seeks to win the League Cup for a remarkable fifth time during his tenure at Manchester City. The Catalan manager highlighted that reaching Wednesday's final would represent the club's fifth Carabao Cup final appearance in just ten years.
Phillips Loan Move Acknowledged
Guardiola also took time to wish midfielder Kalvin Phillips well as the England international begins a loan spell at Sheffield United. The City boss acknowledged Phillips' challenging period since joining the club, marked by limited opportunities and injury setbacks, expressing hope that regular football at Bramall Lane would benefit the player's development and confidence.
The Manchester City medical team will conduct a late assessment of Cherki's condition on Wednesday morning, with Guardiola expected to make a final decision close to kick-off time at the Etihad Stadium.
