AliousManchester City will be without several key defenders when they travel to face Nottingham Forest in Saturday’s early Premier League kick-off.
Pep Guardiola’s side heads into the match just one point behind Forest in the league standings, making this a crucial fixture. Securing three points away from home against one of the division’s in-form teams would be a strong statement of intent, but the task is made harder by City’s defensive injury crisis.
City’s Defensive Woes
Guardiola is missing a significant portion of his first-choice backline. Nathan Ake recently underwent surgery for a fractured foot, ruling him out for the foreseeable future. He joins John Stones and Manuel Akanji on the injury list, leaving City short of options in central defense.
Despite these setbacks, some key players have been able to recharge. Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, and Savinho were given some rest during last weekend’s 3-1 FA Cup victory over Plymouth, which should leave them fresher for this crucial league encounter.
Rodri’s Recovery Update
City fans will be eager for Rodri’s return, but Guardiola has emphasized the need for patience. The midfielder is making progress in his recovery from knee surgery, but the manager has made it clear that no risks will be taken.
“The fans must know they are not the only ones excited,” Guardiola said last week.
> *”But we have to be careful. We don’t want to make reckless decisions that could set him back. He’s improving, but he’s still not close to returning.”
The City boss added that Rodri has started light ball work and has been interacting with teammates in the locker room, which has boosted his confidence. However, a return to competitive action remains some way off.
Predicted Manchester City XI vs Nottingham Forest
Goalkeeper: Ederson
Defenders: Nunes, Dias, Khusanov, Gvardiol
Midfielders: Nico, Kovacic
Forwards: Savinho, Marmoush, Doku, Haaland
Injured: Ake, Stones, Rodri, Bobb, Akanji
Match Details
– Kick-off time: 12:30 PM GMT, Saturday, March 8, 2025
– Venue: City Ground, Nottingham
– TV Channel & Live Stream: TNT Sports
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