FridayOL

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola addressed the media ahead of their crucial Premier League showdown against Fulham this Sunday (kick-off 16:00 BST). With just one point needed to secure the title, Guardiola provided updates on his squad, including the availability of key players and a fitness assessment of Phil Foden. Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways from his press conference:

Stones Still Sidelined, Rodri & Kovacic Ready to Contribute

The news wasn't all positive for City fans. Guardiola confirmed that John Stones remains unavailable for selection, continuing his spell on the sidelines. However, there's good news regarding two midfield stalwarts. Both Rodri and Mateo Kovacic are expected to be on the bench, providing valuable experience and tactical flexibility for Guardiola to utilize as needed during the match.

Foden's Fitness – A Key Factor

All eyes will be on Phil Foden's condition heading into the game. Guardiola was cautious when discussing Foden's fitness, indicating a careful assessment would be made before determining his involvement. Foden's dynamic play and goal-scoring ability are vital to City's attacking prowess, and his presence on the pitch could significantly impact the outcome of the match. Guardiola emphasized the importance of managing Foden's workload to ensure he’s ready for the demands of the game.

One Point Away: The Title Race Nears Its End

The pressure is immense, but Guardiola's squad is just one point away from clinching the Premier League title. The atmosphere at Craven Cottage is expected to be electric, with both sets of fans eager to witness a thrilling conclusion to the season. Guardiola acknowledged the challenge posed by Fulham, emphasizing the need for his team to remain focused and execute their game plan effectively. “Fulham are always a tough opponent, they fight for every ball. We need to be ready for a physical battle,” he stated.

Tactical Considerations and Potential Line-ups

With Stones ruled out, Guardiola has a decision to make regarding his defensive line-up. The availability of Rodri and Kovacic on the bench provides tactical options in midfield, allowing Guardiola to adjust his approach based on the flow of the game. While he remained tight-lipped about his starting eleven, Guardiola hinted at the possibility of rotating players to keep the squad fresh for the upcoming Champions League final.

Looking Ahead: Champions League Final on the Horizon

While securing the Premier League title is the immediate priority, Guardiola's focus will quickly shift to the Champions League final against Inter Milan. The demanding schedule and the importance of the two games mean careful player management will be crucial. The match against Fulham is not just about securing the league title; it’s also about preparing the team physically and mentally for the biggest game of the season.