The Citizens hope to edge out Arsenal in their close title race in the second half of the season.
Manchester City star Kalvin Phillips is out with an injury ahead of his side’s Premier League match against Leeds United.
Phillips played twice for England during the World Cup as he managed to complete his recovery process just before the tournament.
However, he was out of Man City’s squad for their 3-2 win over Liverpool in the EFL Cup on Thursday.
Speaking after the game, Pep Guardiola confirmed Phillips has stayed out of action with a fitness problem.
“Kalvin Phillips is not fit,” said Guardiola. “He did not arrive in the best condition to train and play. He is not ready. Ruben Dias is injured. Ruben has a hamstring from the last game in the World Cup and he is out.”
Man City sit five points behind Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table as they prepare for the competition’s restart.
The Citizens return to the English top flight on the back of a statement win over Liverpool. Kevin De Bruyne, once again, proved his vital role in City’s lineup, providing two assists for his teammates.
“Today he was outstanding,” Pep added on De Bruyne. “Kevin has had eight years here, you know him like me – he has to find the right fire inside of himself, just to be a little bit, I would say grumpy or upset to play his best.
“That is his energy inside of him. When this happens, what a player: run, provide assists, score goals, he is more than a player.
He added: “De Bruyne will be remembered for ever as one of the greatest, greatest, greatest players of this club.”
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