Manchester City are preparing for a crucial Club World Cup showdown against Juventus with concerns over squad fitness and disciplinary setbacks. Pep Guardiola has provided updates on key players Claudio Echeverri and Rodri, as well as addressing Rico Lewis’s suspension, all while managing intense weather conditions in Orlando.
Echeverri, who had recently marked his first goal for the club with a stunning free-kick in City’s 6-0 thrashing of Al-Ain, is now sidelined. The 19-year-old forward was subbed off at halftime due to a twisted ankle and later seen on crutches wearing a protective boot. Guardiola confirmed he’ll be out for up to three weeks, likely missing the rest of the tournament.
As Man City look to rotate their squad due to player fatigue and rising heat, Guardiola noted that the lineup against Juventus will include several changes. The Catalan coach emphasized the need to manage the rhythm of play, stating that the conditions in Orlando make it impossible to maintain a high tempo for a full 90 minutes.
Meanwhile, the fitness of Rodri remains under watch. The Spanish midfielder, recovering from an ACL injury suffered last September, has been gradually reintegrated into the squad. After featuring for 30 minutes in both of City’s previous Group G matches, Guardiola hinted that Rodri will once again be used as a substitute against Juventus, citing the high humidity and temperature as limiting factors.
Despite the difficult conditions, Guardiola highlighted improvements in team performance between the two group fixtures, attributing the rise in tempo to better weather management. Still, he stressed that the team would need to continue adapting as they progress further into the competition.
In the midfield, options remain strong with Bernardo Silva, Nico Gonzalez, and Ilkay Gundogan likely to continue. Gundogan, who scored twice in the last match, remains in top form, while summer arrival Tijjani Reijnders could also return to the starting lineup.
Adding to Guardiola’s frustration is the three-match ban handed to Rico Lewis by FIFA. The young defender received a red card on matchday one following an accidental high boot to an opponent’s face. Although he missed the Al-Ain game, he is still suspended for the Juventus clash and the following knockout round.
Guardiola voiced his displeasure at the decision, describing Lewis as gentle and unintentionally involved in the incident. He remarked that the punishment seemed excessive, especially given Lewis’s clean record and defensive style. While frustrated, Guardiola has accepted the ruling and noted that Lewis will have more time to rest and recover before rejoining the squad later in the tournament.
In Lewis’s absence, Guardiola may call upon Manuel Akanji, Matheus Nunes, or Abdukodir Khusanov to fill in at right-back. The team remains confident but aware of the challenges ahead as they attempt to top their group and push toward the latter stages of the Club World Cup.