Josko Gvardiol experienced a setback, preventing his participation in Manchester City’s initial Premier League contest against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The squad led by Pep Guardiola secured a resounding 4-0 triumph at Molineux, highlighted by goals from recent acquisitions Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, complementing a proficient double from forward Erling Haaland.
Gvardiol’s absence, attributed to a ‘knock,’ also extended to City’s preparatory victory against Palermo, an Italian team, earlier in August. The question remains: Will he be included in Manchester City’s starting lineup for the match against Tottenham this upcoming weekend?
Will Josko Gvardiol of Manchester City be ready to play this weekend?
Gvardiol, who joined from RB Leipzig in 2023, has primarily played as a left-back during his tenure at City and is highly regarded in that role when in optimal condition.
However, the recent addition of specialist fullback Rayan Ait-Nouri suggests that Gvardiol will likely transition back to his favored central defensive position once he returns to the team.
Regrettably, City enthusiasts might need to exercise patience before witnessing Gvardiol’s return in the team’s colors.
It seems the Saturday match against Tottenham, scheduled for the early afternoon, will occur prematurely for the Croatian national player. Guardiola implied that he is not yet in suitable condition to participate.
“[Mateo] Kovacic is unavailable, Josko [Gvardiol] is also unavailable, but the rest are fit”, the City manager mentioned before the encounter between his squad and Wolves in their previous match.
Notably, Gvardiol’s name is present in the Croatia roster for the approaching international matches, suggesting the talented defender is nearing a complete recovery.
While not officially disclosed, Gvardiol’s injury doesn’t present itself as something overly concerning.
There is potential the 23-year-old will regain sufficient fitness to partake in City’s visit to Brighton on Sunday, August 31.
