Pep Guardiola anticipates Kevin De Bruyne’s return.
De Bruyne missed City’s victories over Fulham and West Ham due to an injury that went undiagnosed during their victory over Arsenal on April 26.
The Belgian midfielder resumed training on Thursday, and Guardiola, the manager of City, suggested it would not be a risk to have him play immediately this weekend at the Etihad Stadium.
“He exercised yesterday and did well. After training today, we’ll make a decision, Guardiola told reporters on Friday.
In this stage of the season, losing or skipping just one week or 10 days is not a problem. Nathan (Ake) experienced the same thing. He can play if he’s healthy.
If City defeats Leeds, they will temporarily move four points ahead of second-placed Arsenal in the race for their fifth championship in six years.
On Sunday, the Gunners have a challenging trip to third-place Newcastle, which could be a pivotal weekend for the title race.
Treble-hunting In addition, City must prepare for the first leg of the Champions League semifinal against Real Madrid on Tuesday.
However, Guardiola insisted he wouldn’t consider that match when deciding how to handle De Bruyne’s return.
There are numerous games and high levels of tension, according to Guardiola. “After the demands from West Ham and Fulham, I see the team as being extremely exhausted. Just three days after the previous game, I need to see how the players are recovering.
“I’ll be paying attention to how they’re feeling both physically and mentally for this game. Then Madrid. Since the Premier League is so lovely, it’s crucial to surpass Arsenal by four points.
Sam Allardyce, 68, who is in charge of Leeds for the first time, will face City on Saturday.
Allardyce, a former manager of Newcastle and Everton, was hired by Leeds this week in an effort to keep them in the Premier League.
The Yorkshire club’s goal difference keeps them one spot above the bottom half of the standings.
For the first one or two games, a new manager always has an effect on the players, according to Guardiola.
Every team is competing for significant goals. Obviously, it has a significant impact on Leeds to remain here.
“I don’t know how they play; we don’t have any information. After five or ten minutes, we’ll need to adapt quickly. What he attempts to accomplish is conceivable. It’s a big, crucial game for us.
Pep Guardiola anticipates Kevin De Bruyne’s return.
