PREDICTED LINEUPS, CONFIRMED SQUAD NEWS AND MOST RECENT CHAMPIONS LEAGUE INJURIES

April 26, 2022
3 years ago

 Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that John Stones and Kyle Walker are in doubt for Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg against Real Madrid. 

 Walker is still struggling with an ankle injury that has kept him out of Premier League wins over Brighton and Watford, while the Stones did not train last week.

Although Guardiola hinted a decision would be made closer to the game, the fact that neither of them were tested before such a big game would make them unlikely. 

 Elsewhere, Joao Cancelo's suspension means Guardiola will have to make adjustments if Walker is deemed out of action. 

 While Guardiola did hint a decision would be made closer to the game, the fact neither have been put through their paces ahead of such a huge game would suggest they are unlikely.

 

Elsewhere, Joao Cancelo is suspended, meaning Guardiola will have to tinker if Walker is deemed unable to play.

Guardiola admits that some of his players will have to get used to operating in positions they are not entirely comfortable with, so perhaps we could see a rather unusual formation. 

 The former Barcelona coach also paid tribute to Madrid's once-greatest rivals ahead of the game.

We have a desire to compete with them. For us, going against them is an incredible test and we want to try it. When we are in pain, let's stand together. Try to do the best you can. 

 “It's the same against Bayern or Barcelona. They are a team many times in this position. for over a decade we were hardly here and now here we are, which is good. Getting to the final will be a good lesson for us, that's for sure.