Pep Guardiola gave injury updates on Khusanov, Savinho, John Stones and Jeremy Doku ahead of Man City’s match against Fulham
Manchester City return to the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night as they host Fulham, fresh from a statement victory at Anfield that reignited belief in winning the Premier League across the squad.
City’s 1-2 comeback win over Liverpool was not only significant in the context of the title race, but also physically demanding, raising immediate questions over recovery, rotation and availability ahead of another quick turnaround.
Pep Guardiola faced the media on Tuesday with supporters eager for clarity – though answers were not immediately forthcoming.
Guardiola revealed that his players were given Monday off following the trip to Merseyside, admitting he had not yet overseen a full session at the time of his press conference. As a result, final decisions were still pending, with a clearer picture expected after training later in the day.
Guardiola offers early team news hints
When asked directly about the fitness of Savinho, John Stones and Jeremy Doku, Guardiola kept things deliberately brief.
“I didn’t train with them. We train this afternoon. John [Stones] is back, fit I would say. Yeah, everybody is okay,” the City manager said.
While Stones’ return is a notable boost, the England international is unlikely to be rushed straight back into the starting XI against Fulham.
Savinho, meanwhile, was not explicitly confirmed as being ready to feature, suggesting the Brazilian winger may also need more time before returning to full involvement.
Doku’s situation appears more cautious. The Belgian has dealt with recent muscular issues, and with City’s attacking options performing well – particularly January additions Antoine Semenyo and Omar Marmoush — Guardiola may opt to manage his minutes carefully.
Khusanov earns Guardiola’s praise
One player who did leave the pitch early at Anfield was Abdukodir Khusanov, who was withdrawn following a head injury after delivering an impressive display in defence.
Guardiola was full of admiration when discussing the young centre-back’s development, and confirmed he is ready to play.
“Yeah, good. He’s able to play. Maybe he had a difficult start here, but he’s still only 21, and then there’s the language barrier,” Guardiola said.
“He doesn’t speak like William Shakespeare but he’s getting better and better. He understands what we want and every time he is better. “He is so intelligent… he’s always taking good decisions.”
The City boss highlighted Khusanov’s rare blend of physical dominance and game intelligence, adding: “Man City have a player and a central defender for many years.”
With City back on home soil and training set to clarify late fitness calls, Guardiola’s selection against Fulham will hinge on recovery rather than availability, a familiar balancing act as the schedule continues to tighten.