🔵 STABLE IT: Manchester City could welcome back two key stars from injury ahead of Everton clash

Manchester City’s title run-in might be getting a much-needed injection of firepower as the club receives uplifting news ahead of their Premier League clash against Everton. Pep Guardiola’s men are currently locked in an intense race for domestic and European glory, and the return of two key players from injury could prove decisive.

With Saturday’s trip to Goodison Park looming, preparations have gone up a notch at the Etihad training complex. And from the latest developments, City fans have every reason to smile.

On Thursday morning, City’s official X (formerly Twitter) account dropped a set of training photos that sent the fanbase into a frenzy. Among the familiar faces putting in the work were Phil Foden and Manuel Akanji — both of whom have been out in recent weeks due to respective injuries.

Foden, who missed City’s exhilarating 5-2 win over Crystal Palace last weekend, appeared sharp and focused as he rejoined the group. The young Englishman picked up a knock during the recent Manchester derby and was subsequently sidelined as a precaution. But his presence in full training suggests he may be back in contention to feature at Goodison Park.

For Guardiola, the return of Foden would be more than just a boost — it would be a statement. The 23-year-old has been sensational this season, contributing with clutch goals, moments of flair, and a creative edge that few can match. His link-up with De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva has been vital in City’s attack, and his fitness could tilt the balance in a match that promises to be physically demanding.

But even more significant than Foden’s return might be the reappearance of Swiss defender Manuel Akanji. The versatile centre-back has been absent since February after succumbing to a troubling abductor injury that had nagged him for several months.

Akanji’s situation was more complicated. He had been playing through pain for a portion of the campaign, putting the team’s needs ahead of his own. Eventually, surgery became unavoidable, and he was forced onto the sidelines for an extended rehabilitation period.

Now, after weeks of careful recovery, his return to training has sparked hope that he might be ready to rejoin the matchday squad. With John Stones facing fitness issues of his own, and Ruben Dias still being eased into full match fitness, Akanji’s comeback could not be more timely.

For Guardiola, these returns symbolize more than just physical recoveries — they represent the reinforcement of his tactical depth. With the season approaching a critical stage, he’ll need every weapon in his arsenal to rotate, adapt, and conquer the fixtures ahead.

Everton away is never an easy task, especially with Sean Dyche’s men fighting for survival and known for their aggressive, pressing football. The availability of Foden and Akanji will offer more options and flexibility — particularly as City also prepares for upcoming Champions League commitments.

Supporters will be waiting with bated breath for Guardiola’s official press conference, where he’s expected to give updates on the duo’s fitness levels. But the evidence from training is compelling, and insiders suggest that both players could at least make the bench for the Everton clash.

It’s worth noting that City has had to navigate a minefield of injuries this season. From De Bruyne’s early absence to Jack Grealish’s intermittent knocks, managing player fitness has become as important as tactical decisions. The return of key figures now could swing the pendulum in their favour.

Guardiola, always meticulous, thrives in these high-pressure moments. His ability to squeeze every ounce of performance from his players is unparalleled — but having the likes of Foden and Akanji available makes his job that much easier.

Meanwhile, Everton are sure to take note. A full-strength Manchester City side is one of the most formidable forces in world football, and if Foden is in the lineup, his ability to exploit pockets of space could be devastating.

Likewise, Akanji brings calm, intelligence, and progressive passing to the backline. In a fixture that may become a physical grind, his presence could be essential in diffusing Everton’s direct approach and transitioning City into quick attacks.

As City fans scroll through training clips and zoom into every frame for clues, excitement is building. The title race remains tight, with Arsenal and Liverpool breathing down their necks, but the reigning champions are used to this dance.

Injuries have derailed many title charges in the past — but Manchester City look like they’re stabilizing at the right moment. The return of Foden and Akanji could signal the start of the final push — one that City hopes will end in silverware, both at home and in Europe.

For now, all eyes are on Goodison Park. And with two of their stars possibly returning, City might just be ready to roar again.