Omar Marmoush to miss the highly anticipated Manchester derby on Sunday due to an injury to the knee sustained during international duties with Egypt.
The 26-year-old was carried off after getting a heavy challenge on his left leg just minutes after Egypt’s 0-0 draw against Burkina Faso in the World Cup qualifier on Tuesday. Part of his body examination revealed bruising to the ligament of his knee which made him withdrawn from the national team squad.
On Wednesday, City informed: “The preliminary findings of a scan done in Egypt indicate that he will not be available for the Manchester derby on Sunday. He will be flown back to Manchester for further assessment and for the start of rehabilitation.”
Omar Marmoush, who signed for City last January, made a lot of impression in his debut season with eight goals and four assists in all competitions but still hasn’t scored this season. His absence further deepens Pep Guardiola’s injury bluff before the showdown with Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium.
Rayan Cherki and Mateo Kovacic are already long-term absentees and Phil Foden and Savinho are still on the brink of fitness. The blow means that Guardiola only has limited attacking options as his team are aiming at a turnaround of the Premier League table where they are currently placed 13th after losing three matches.
