Manchester City will be without forward Omar Marmoush for a few weeks due to a knee injury, according to manager Pep Guardiola. The Egyptian international sustained the injury while playing for his country in a World Cup qualifier against Burkina Faso on Tuesday.
Guardiola addressed the media, confirming Marmoush's expected absence. "He has to make the last tests but a few weeks, I think," Guardiola stated. He anticipates Marmoush will be back either before or after the next international break.
Marmoush suffered the injury early in the match against Burkina Faso. He appeared to injure his knee following a tackle in the fourth minute. He initially attempted to continue playing but was eventually replaced. Images later surfaced showing Marmoush with a knee brace and using crutches.
Manchester City released a statement confirming Marmoush's injury. The club indicated that initial scans performed in Egypt suggested he would be unavailable for the Manchester derby. Marmoush has returned to Manchester for further assessment and to begin his rehabilitation.
The injury is a blow for both Marmoush and Manchester City. Since joining the club in January, Marmoush has made 19 appearances and scored 7 goals. He has featured in all of City's league games this season, starting in the defeats against Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton & Hove Albion. His versatility and attacking prowess have made him a valuable asset to the team.
Marmoush's absence adds to City's existing injury concerns. Defender John Stones remains a doubt for the Manchester United derby due to a muscular issue that forced him to miss England's recent World Cup qualifiers. Rayan Cherki is also sidelined for two months.
With several players unavailable, Guardiola will need to reshuffle his squad. The City boss will be hoping that other players can step up in Marmoush's absence. Erling Haaland's form will be crucial, and Guardiola will also rely on players such as Jeremy Doku, Oscar Bobb, and Savinho.
Despite the injury setbacks, Manchester City will be aiming to get back to winning ways. After losing their previous two league matches, the derby against Manchester United presents an opportunity to turn their form around.
