Why Raheem Sterling is missing from Man City squad vs Fulham

Raheem Sterling’s absence from the Manchester City squad is solely tactical, Pep Guardiola has confirmed.

Sterling was a noteable absentee from the beginning line up and substitutes at Craven Cottage on Saturday evening, for a teamsheet that had seven modifications from the win in opposition to Southampton.

With Sergio Aguero, Benjamin Mendy and John Stones again within the line up, the likes of Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan dropped to the bench, whereas Sterling was lacking fully.

Nonetheless, Guardiola confirmed that there isn’t a damage concern for Sterling, merely replying ‘no’ when requested about an damage by BT Sport, and ‘sure’ when requested if it is a tactical transfer.

Explaining his rotation, Guardiola expanded a bit of extra, saying: “What we have now finished the final two, three, 4 months, all people is concerned.”

On Aguero, Guardiola mentioned Metropolis are assured the striker is able to return to the beginning line up after a current spell on the bench.

“The sense of purpose he at all times has and could have, no doubts about that,” Guardiola mentioned.

“We thought immediately is an effective day for him and that is why he performs.”

The supervisor was additionally requested about Fulham, who begin former Metropolis defender Tosin Adarabioyo.

“To start with, I want to say how joyful we’re all of us for what he is doing,” the Metropolis boss mentioned of Adarabioyo.

“He is a man for the academy, lastly he took his place within the Premier League and we’re greater than delighted the extent he is displaying. He deserves it, an excellent skilled and an excellent footballer.

“We respect for what they’ve finished to this point. He is a younger supervisor and they’re rising in the fitting method and it is Fulham is good to look at from the start of the season.”