Manchester City hope to have Kyle Walker back in time for their crucial match against Real Madrid in the Champions League. The experienced defender has missed his side’s last two games with injury.
Manchester City Defender Eyeing Return Against Real Madrid
A Key Player
Walker was among Bayern Munich’s main transfer targets last summer as the German giants hoped to sign him alongside Harry Kane. However, Man City eventually convinced him to stay at Etihad and sign a two-year contract extension.
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The decision to keep Walker has paid off, with the England international continuing his key role in City’s backline. Pep Guardiola’s “exceptional” right-back has stayed away from serious fitness issues so far this season. However, a minor hamstring injury (picked up during England’s friendly match against Brazil) has kept him sidelined for the past two weeks.
A Timely Return?
Walker missed Man City’s Premier League matches against Arsenal and Aston Villa upon his return from international duty. Guardiola has also ruled out the 33-year-old for this weekend’s match against Crystal Palace. However, he might still have a chance to return in time for his side’s trip to Santiago Bernabeu.
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According to ESPN, City still hope that Walker could speed up his recovery and regain full fitness ahead of their match against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.
Having the former Tottenham star back would be a major squad boost for the Citizens. However, he’s not the only injury concern for the treble defenders.
Manchester City Injury List
Similar to Walker, John Stones came back from England’s camp with an injury. The centre-back remained an unused substitute against Arsenal and Aston Villa. However, he is ready to make his return against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
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Nathan Ake, who limped off the pitch against Arsenal last weekend, is yet to return to team training. The Dutchman is expected to miss the Real Madrid match with a calf injury.
Another major injury concern is that of Ederson. The Brazilian goalkeeper has stayed out of action since City’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield before the international break. However, Guardiola has revealed that he could return to the squad against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
