European Leagues

De Bruyne in fitness race to face Arsenal in epic clash

Manchester City are optimistic that Kevin De Bruyne will be fit for Sunday’s crucial Premier League clash with Arsenal.

De Bruyne missed the FA Cup quarterfinal win over Newcastle United because of a groin injury, with the problem also ruling him out of of Belgium’s friendlies against Republic of Ireland and England over the international break.

But there’s growing hope that the midfielder will be available for selection against Arsenal after coming through a training session with the Under-23s on Tuesday. Jack Grealish, who was not part of the England squad while be continues his recovery from a muscle injury, has also been training at the City Football Academy this week.

Medical staff will continue to monitor De Bruyne, but he is expected to take part when first-team training resumes on Thursday.

Most of City’s international players are due back at the club by Friday at the latest ahead of their final preparations for Arsenal’s visit to the Etihad.

De Bruyne’s potential availability is a boost for manager Pep Guardiola, who is sweating over the fitness of Kyle Walker and John Stones.

Walker was forced off during England’s 1-0 defeat to Brazil on Saturday after suffering a hamstring injury while Stones was substituted early during the 2-2 draw with Belgium on Tuesday with an adductor problem.

Walker’s injury is not thought to be serious, but he still faces a race against time to prove his fitness before facing Mikel Arteta’s title challengers.

Meanwhile, sources have told ESPN that City are disappointed with the scheduling of their FA Cup semifinal against Chelsea.

City initially believed the game would be played on Sunday, April 21 — four days after their Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Real Madrid at the Etihad.

However, the club have since been told the fixture will take place at Wembley on the Saturday — 24 hours earlier — leaving Guardiola and his players just three days to recover from their game against the Spanish giants.

Neither Manchester United or Coventry — the teams in the other semifinal — are involved in European competition and, according to sources, initially expected to play on Saturday. City are also scheduled to play Brighton at the Amex on April 25 before their trip to Nottingham Forest three days later on April 28.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Raphael Onyedika reflects on first UCL Goal

Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika expressed his excitement after scoring his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.

Despite Brugge’s 3-1 loss, Onyedika couldn’t hide his pride in the achievement. “I don’t know how to put it, but it’s an amazing feeling to score my first goal in City’s stadium. I’m so proud,” the Nigeria international told Flashcore.com.

Onyedika acknowledged that while Brugge took the lead, they struggled after conceding. “We knew it would be difficult after we got the first goal; we were a bit sloppy. And when we conceded the first goal, they had more momentum and energy, so it was much more difficult for us because of our mistakes.”

The goal will surely be a memorable moment for the young midfielder as he continues his Champions League journey.

Premier League

David Raya doubtful for Arsenal’s clash against Manchester City

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that goalkeeper David Raya may miss the Gunners’ crucial Premier League fixture against Manchester City on Sunday.

Raya was absent from Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Girona in the Champions League, with Neto stepping in for his debut after joining on a season-long loan from Bournemouth.

Although Neto conceded the opening goal to Arnaut Danjuma in the 28th minute, Arsenal responded with Jorginho’s penalty and a spectacular goal by rising star Ethan Nwaneri.

Arteta did not provide specific details on Raya’s injury but noted, “He certainly could not play, and he’s injured, and that’s it. We’ll see how it improves.”

When asked whether Neto could continue in Raya’s absence, Arteta expressed confidence in the experienced goalkeeper, stating, “That’s why he’s here, to do that job… I’m very happy that he played and we won again.”

Arsenal will be hoping Raya recovers in time for the vital clash as they look to maintain their strong position in the league.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Tella celebrates first Champions League goal in Bayer Leverkusen win

Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has joyfully celebrated his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal after netting in his team’s 2-0 triumph over Sparta Prague on Wednesday night.

The Nigeria international struck in the 64th minute, sealing the victory and helping Leverkusen advance to the Round of 16. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the former Burnley star, who was playing in England’s second-tier league just two years ago.

Taking to social media after the match, Tella shared his excitement with a heartfelt message accompanied by a photo from the game:

“Dreams come true,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso praised Tella’s performance as the team comfortably secured their place in the next stage of Europe’s elite competition. Tella’s rapid rise continues to inspire fans and players alike as he establishes himself on the European football stage.