Speaking to the press, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has confirmed that his ‘beloved‘ defensive ace Eric Garcia will miss their clash with cross-town rivals Manchester United through a late injury problem – with the Spaniard now out of action for two-three weeks and ‘not fit’.
Garcia, who has been at the centre of reports heavily linking him with a move away from the Etihad Stadium, will not feature in today’s blockbuster Manchester derby clash as Guardiola confirms his absence.
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Garcia absent for Manchester derby
The teenage star’s stance on a Barcelona return has been made known in recent months, attracting criticism from Sky Blues as Guardiola continues to utilise him in matchday squads when he is available.
However, due to a late injury, the 19-year-old will not play against Man United – with the City boss missing a defender he described as ‘beloved‘ to the team.
Even though Guardiola is a huge admirer of Garcia, Citizens won’t be too concerned with his unavailability given the presence of a rejuvenated John Stones and colossal summer signing Ruben Dias.
City also have Nathan Ake back after his return from a hamstring injury, while star man Aymeric Laporte is also ready for selection.
Transfer Tavern take
As Sky Blues gear up for the first Derby of 2020/2021 and a trip to Old Trafford, Guardiola will be hoping they can build upon their solid run of form whilst taking back the Manchester bragging rights.
City are on a near-perfect streak since their 2-0 loss to Spurs three weeks ago, winning four out of their last five matches in all competitions and not conceding a single goal in that time.
As United looms, they couldn’t have asked for a better warm up – especially after finishing top of their Champions League group mid-week, but as every Blue knows, form has the tendency to go out the window on Derby Day.
In other news: Man City fans want this ‘perfect’ ace to return, find out more here.
