In less than a week, Manchester City has a monumental clash against European heavyweights Real Madrid. But the buildup for the game isn’t ideal for the Sky Blues as they face a mini-defensive crisis with the likes of Nathan Ake, Ederson, and John Stones all having injury issues. Adding to their ill fate, Pep Guardiola has issued an update on defensive lynchpin Kyle Walker. Walker’s injury is serious, according to the City boss, yet Guardiola didn’t seem distraught by the news. Perhaps the Spanish tactician is keeping the cards close to his chest.
In a recent press conference, Pep Guardiola was asked about Walker’s chances for the tie against Los Blancos. The Spaniard answered, “The doctor said no.” The manager feels a ray of hope regarding Walker’s participation. He explained, “Kyle is Kyle having a special genetic but what the doctor said to me, it (injury) was quite serious.” Walker’s availability could be central to Manchester City’s plans against Real Madrid, and it is understandable why Guardiola wants the Englishman to be fit and available.
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Last season, Kyle Walker’s battle against Vinicius Junior was arguably the highlight of the tie. While the Brazilian scored a goal, Walker did a good job negating his influence. Hence, it proved a key reason Manchester City got the better of Real Madrid. However, an unfortunate muscle injury on an international break has foiled the club’s plans.
Soon to be 34, Walker is past his physical prime. His contract ends in 2026, and considering his recent injury troubles, it seems wise for Manchester City to start looking for a successor. And it seems they are already plotting a move for one of Europe’s finest talents.
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Manchester City keen on Bundesliga defender with an eye for a goal
According to reports, Manchester City is keen to sign Dutch full-back Jeremie Frimpong this summer. The Bayer Leverkusen star has been sensational this season and has added goal-scoring to his array of tricks. This season, the full-back has scored 11 goals and as many assists! In context, that is more goals than Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling, two of the league’s finest attackers!
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Also, Frimpong was a former Manchester City academy player, and perhaps that could strengthen the Sky Blues’ chances. At 23, he has all the attributes to be the ideal Kyle Walker successor. However, the Premier League champions have tough competition on their hands, as Manchester United is also interested in the Dutchman. Regardless, it could be a game-changer for Pep Guardiola & Co. if they manage to get the signing over the line.