Pep Guardiola to fast-track two new signings as Man City news confirmed – pundit
Noel Whelan has backed Man City new boys Manuel Akanji and Sergio Gomez to come into the side following a new crushing double injury blow.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the arrival of the two new faces has ensured the Premier League champions are not weakened by any inevitable injury woes.
According to the Manchester Evening News (5 September), John Stones and Kyle Walker are injured and haven’t travelled to Spain for the Champions League clash against Sevilla on Tuesday (6 September).
The report quotes Guardiola, who claimed the schedule for the duo’s return is not yet set – hinting they could even miss next week’s game against Wolves (17 September).
Akanji, a 27-year-old Switzerland international, joined Man City on transfer deadline day to provide crucial centre-back cover.
Left-back Gomez signed for the Citizens last month following Oleksandr Zinchenko’s move to Arsenal.
When asked if the two new faces could now be fast-tracked into the starting eleven, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “I think so.
“It’s very early on to be dealing with these injuries and they are already missing a number of key players.
“Kyle Walker, for me, is one of the best full-backs in the world – let alone the Premier League.
“I don’t think Pep is going to be complaining too much. He’s covered his back by bringing in these new players and giving himself that squad depth.
“There’ll be changes in personnel, and changes in system – but they won’t be relying on kids here.
“It’s going to be quality replacing quality, and that’s always been the case for Man City. It doesn’t really weaken them in any way.”
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