Manchester City are approaching full strength for return clash with Real Madrid

Manchester City picked up a crucial 5-1 win over Luton Town yesterday at the Etihad Stadium. The performance from Pep Guardiola’s side was one of total dominance as they picked up a crucial three points in their chase for a fourth successive Premier League title. But another story did come out of yesterday’s win. It appears that Manchester City is approaching full strength for the penultimate stage of the season.

Heading into yesterday’s game, there was positive news with Kyle Walker and Nathan Ake named on the bench. The pair had been out for several games due to injury. But it is a boost for the world champions to see both players back in the game day squad yesterday. With their return, it gives Pep Guardiola a full deck from which to play with in Manchester City’s treble defence.

John Stones wasn’t included in the City squad for yesterday’s win at the Etihad Stadium. But speaking post game Pep Guardiola said that the England international wasn’t risked for the game due to Stones not feeling comfortable. Speaking about Stones, Ake and Walker following his team’s win Guardiola said: “John has some problems, some niggles. He’s fine. He’s not injured but doesn’t feel comfortable, so we didn’t take a risk. Nathan and Kyle wanted to be on the bench, so I said, ‘okay, go on the bench.”

Pep Guardiola also spoke on the subject of Rodri being rested for yesterday’s win. The City manager was asked if City’s midfield general would have benefited from being rested. Guardiola answered with: “Absolutely. He is going to rest on Wednesday as well. You believe me?”

On top of the victory yesterday Manchester City having almost everyone available is another positive from their dominant display. With Real Madrid next up on Wednesday evening it appears that City will be facing the La Liga giants at near strength in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie.