Manchester City Injury Update: Pep Guardiola Concerned at Jack Grealish & Confirms Bernardo Silva’s ‘Big Knock’ in the Ankle

Manchester City aced their UEFA Champions League RO16 clash against Copenhagen. The Sky Blues brought their A-game on Tuesday evening as they clinched an emphatic 1-3 away victory in the first leg. However, the win was not without its setbacks, as Pep Guardiola revealed concerning injury news post-match regarding Jack Grealish, Bernardo Silva, and other City stars that could become key absences for the upcoming clash. There is also good news.

Josko Gvardiol

The Croatian center-back wasn’t named in the squad to face the Danish side. He has been sidelined with an ankle ligament injury. When asked about the duration of his absence, Guardiola said, “Josko will be out two weeks, three weeks; he has an ankle ligament injury.” Notably, the 22-year-old was present for Manchester City’s clash against Everton, but he remained on the bench throughout their 2-0 victory. 

Jack Grealish 

The England international started the match but was quick to make the sidelines. Despite receiving treatment, the 28-year-old was forced to go off in the 21st minute, being replaced by Jeremy Doku. Speaking in the post-match press conference, Guardiola revealed, “I didn’t speak with the doctor but it looks muscular. A pity, in the last days his attitude in training was much, much better. He helps us find the right tempo.”

Bernardo Silva 

After Kevin De Bruyne’s 10th-minute strike was equalized by Copenhagen’s Magnus Mattson, Bernardo Silva came to the rescue as he restored Manchester City’s lead just before halftime. However, the Portuguese winger was replaced by Matheus Nunes in the 78th minute because of a potential ankle issue. Guardiola confirmed, “Bernardo has a big knock in his ankle.”

Mateo Kovacic 

Kovacic was absent from Manchester City’s roster for the 2-0 victory over Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. He was also ruled out before RO16 leg 1. However, Guardiola has offered a huge update on the Croatian midfielder; “Kovacic is the person to come back. I think Thursday or Friday maybe, he’ll be training with us and we’ll see how he feels.” Perhaps we can see the technical midfielder play in the next match. 

READ MORE: After Everton Brace, Pep Guardiola Makes ‘Tiring’ Erling Haaland Admission

Pep Guardiola and Co. will now return to Premier League action on Saturday night, where they will be facing Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea. The Blues are sitting in 10th place with 34 points. On the other hand, the Cityzens are behind leaders Liverpool, with a 2-point gap. They will be looking to extend their winning streak. 

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