Pep Guardiola has revealed that young forward Oscar Bobb could soon make his long-awaited return to Manchester City’s first-team squad following a five-month injury absence.
The 21-year-old Norwegian, who impressed in the Community Shield earlier this season, suffered a training injury that kept him sidelined for months.
While Bobb isn’t expected to feature in City’s crucial midweek Champions League clash against Club Brugge, Guardiola hinted he might be ready for Sunday’s Premier League blockbuster against Arsenal.
“The guys who were able to [play] in the last game against Chelsea, they are available, and I think Oscar came back as well,” Guardiola stated during his pre-match press conference.
City faces immense pressure heading into the Champions League fixture, sitting 25th in the table. With only the top eight teams securing automatic knockout berths and teams from 9th to 24th entering play-offs, a win over Brugge is essential to keep City’s European hopes alive.
Adding to the squad’s challenges, winger Jeremy Doku remains sidelined with a minor injury, while defender Ruben Dias is set for a spell out due to an abductor issue. However, John Stones is nearing full fitness and could step in for the Portuguese star.
Reflecting on the stakes, Guardiola said, “The situation that we have is that we have to win the game, and if not, we will not continue in this competition. It’s not a problem; it’s an opportunity.”
Having been crowned Champions League winners just two seasons ago, City was among the favorites this year. Yet Guardiola dismissed any notion of his players feeling undue pressure. “I know the players want it. I know how focused they are and I don’t have doubts,” he affirmed.
After the midweek clash, City will turn their attention to Arsenal in a top-of-the-table Premier League showdown on Sunday.
Bobb’s potential return could add depth and versatility to Guardiola’s attacking options as the team aims to continue its pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts.