Manchester City look to have got through the international break without any injury issues and Pep Guardiola will hope for a near full strength side.
Manchester City return to Premier League action on Saturday when they host Brighton & Hove Albion at the Etihad.
Pep Guardiola's side went into the international break in third, having lost consecutive league games for the first time since December 2018. Arsenal left it late to take all three points in the crucial clash at the Emirates a fortnight ago, with that defeat following a 2-1 loss at Wolves the prior weekend.
The vast majority of City players have been away on international duty and seemingly come away unscathed, although some late returnees could provide an issue for Guardiola. In Friday's pre-match press conference, the Blues boss provided an update on Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones, while also speaking about the return of Rodri.
What Guardiola said: "We were concerned because Stones didn't play one minute in the last two months and then to play for the national team. He was so important and we could not use him. We're happy he got minutes but what if he gets injured? So he plays some minutes and comes off. They love to play for their countries I never say not go there, but if a player plays few few minutes we are concerned but thankfully everything was right and he's ready for next games.
What Guardiola said: "So important. He will learn. He got sent off. But there was two fouls on Rodri where the referee didn't apply the rule, without that he doesn't get sent off. After that he has to learn. Control emotions, stand up and go. I'm pretty sure he will learn."What happened: The Belgian midfielder lasted just 22 minutes before coming off in the opening game of the season at Burnley.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Rodri drops hint over Man City future as Akanji sends Brighton warningThese are your Manchester City evening headlines for Thursday, October 19.
Read more »
Rodri drops hint over Man City future as Akanji sends Brighton warningThese are your Manchester City evening headlines for Thursday, October 19.
Read more »
Rodri returns as Alvarez decision made - City possible team vs BrightonManchester City will hope to arrest their Premier League slump at the Etihad on Saturday and Pep Guardiola has a strong squad to pick from.
Read more »
Phillips' message to Pep Guardiola as Rodri drops hint over Man City futureThe latest headlines from the Premier League champions include stories on Kalvin Phillips and Rodri.
Read more »
Foden and Stones give Man City what they need ahead of crucial fixturesManchester City have a crucial run of fixtures coming up and will need as many players at their best as possible.
Read more »