Guardiola gives injury update ahead of Newcastle | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola says his squad returned from the international break with no fresh injuries with only Rodri and Mateo Kovacic coming back to full fitness.

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Many of the players joined up with their countries during the past fortnight with some, such as Erling Haaland, Nathan Ake and Tijjani Reijnders, confirming their places at the 2026 World Cup.

But the focus now switches back to domestic football with Manchester City in action almost twice a week for the next three months until the next international break.

City begin with a tough trip to St James’ Park to face Newcastle on Saturday 22 November for a 17:30 (UK) kick-off.

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Guardiola will be without Kovacic and Rodri and says the Spaniard is stepping up his training but is wary of trying to avoid setbacks.

“Everybody is fit except Kova and Rodri,” the boss said at his pre-match news conference.

“Rodri is making steps good, it’s almost three weeks since his last setback.

“He knows he has to take time to recover well mentally and physically and to be consistent from now until the end.”

Haaland continued his extraordinary form during the break scoring four more goals to take his tally to 32 goals for club and country from 20 appearances this season.

A double against Estonia and two more against Italy helped secure Norway’s place at next summer’s tournament and Guardiola is thrilled for him.

“He’s incredible this season,” he added. “He’s breaking a lot of personal records in the Premier League and with Norway.

“I’m happy for him with his national team and I saw yesterday that many of the squad were not born the last time Norway were in the World Cup.

“Qualification has been incredible, he’s discovered a lot of goals. As a world class player, he deserves to play at a World Cup so I’m happy for him.”

For Guardiola, it was an opportunity for a break from the action as he prepares for the hectic winter schedule.

“For me, the breaks I like it. I love my job but to take the time to breathe is good,” he added.

“For a longer time, could be good! We adapt in the World Cup and in winter time. Whatever they decide, we will do it.”

Newcastle v city app coverage

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Minute-by-minute text updates will begin in our Matchday Centre two hours before kick-off, while our Matchday Live show will begin at around 16:15 (UK).

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