As November draws to a close, the Premier League approaches Matchweek 13 with significant anticipation. The highlight of the weekend is undoubtedly the showdown at Anfield, where Liverpool will face Manchester City in a clash that could have major implications for the title race. With the busy festive season looming, injuries are beginning to test the depth and resilience of squads across the league. Here’s a detailed look at the latest injury updates and player availability for the weekend’s key fixtures.
Liverpool Assess Fitness of Key Players
Liverpool, currently flying high at the top of both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League standings, are dealing with fresh injury concerns. Conor Bradley and Ibrahima Konate are the latest names added to the treatment table after sustaining knocks in their midweek Champions League win against Real Madrid.
Bradley appeared to suffer a hamstring injury late in the game following a robust challenge on Kylian Mbappe, while Konate was forced off after a collision with Real Madrid’s young forward Endrick. Manager Arne Slot shared updates on their conditions, stating, “They are still being assessed; it’s difficult to say where they are. Let’s wait and see, but it’s never a good sign when you have to take them off.”
On a positive note, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been cleared to start against Manchester City, offering a boost to Liverpool’s defensive setup. However, the Reds remain without Alisson Becker (hamstring), Kostas Tsimikas (ankle), Diogo Jota (upper body), and Federico Chiesa, whose injury details remain undisclosed.
Manchester City’s Defensive Woes and Ruben Dias’ Possible Return
Manchester City are looking to bounce back from a turbulent 3-3 Champions League draw against Feyenoord, and they could receive a timely boost with the potential return of Ruben Dias. The Portuguese defender was named on the bench midweek and is reportedly in contention to feature against Liverpool.
Pep Guardiola, however, provided little clarity on the status of his other injured players, including John Stones and Jeremy Doku, who remain doubts for the Anfield clash. Mateo Kovacic, Oscar Bobb, and Rodri are expected to be sidelined for longer spells, adding to Guardiola’s selection headaches.
Newcastle United Bolstered by Returning Midfielders
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United head into their fixture against Crystal Palace with the possibility of Bruno Guimaraes and Joe Willock returning to action. Howe expressed optimism about their recovery, saying, “[They] have a chance to play. Not serious injuries, so we will make a decision today.”
With Newcastle’s squad depth improving, Howe hopes to maintain momentum as the Magpies gear up for the hectic December schedule. The return of key players could be pivotal as they aim to climb further up the Premier League standings.
Arsenal Face Uncertainty Over Gabriel’s Fitness
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta provided updates ahead of their clash with West Ham United, revealing that Gabriel is a doubt after being withdrawn during their Champions League win against Sporting Lisbon. Arteta stated, “A few of them weren’t able to train yesterday, but hopefully they will be able to today. We will wait and see.”
Arsenal’s medical team faces a race against time to assess Gabriel’s readiness, as the Gunners aim to keep pace with the league leaders.
Tottenham Enjoy a Clean Bill of Health
In stark contrast to many of their Premier League rivals, Tottenham Hotspur head into their weekend fixture with a fully fit squad. Manager Ange Postecoglou confirmed, “From last night, at this stage, we have a clean bill of health. I think everything is alright.”
Spurs will look to capitalize on their injury-free status as they prepare for the busy holiday period, where squad depth often becomes a deciding factor.
Aston Villa Wait on Amadou Onana
Aston Villa will conduct a late fitness test on Amadou Onana ahead of their trip to Chelsea, but Jacob Ramsey has been ruled out. Onana has missed Villa’s last two matches due to an injury sustained on international duty. Manager Unai Emery commented on Boubacar Kamara’s return, stating, “He had a small injury but played comfortably on Wednesday. We’ll manage his minutes carefully.”
Villa’s squad management will be critical as they aim to maintain their strong start to the season.
Crystal Palace Boosted by Eze and Nketiah Returns
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner shared positive news ahead of their match against Newcastle, confirming that Eberechi Eze and Eddie Nketiah are back in the squad. Glasner praised the medical team for their swift recovery, saying, “Ebere and Eddie will be in the squad tomorrow. The medical staff did an amazing job.”
Palace fans will hope their returning stars can make an immediate impact as the team looks to climb the table.
Leicester City’s Lone Absentee
Leicester City head into their clash with Brentford with only one player unavailable: Harry Winks. First-team coach Ben Dawson confirmed, “Harry is recovering well, but tomorrow will probably come too early for him.”
Leicester’s interim management team is focused on ensuring stability as the club navigates its managerial transition following the sacking of Steve Cooper.
Brighton Welcome Back Lewis Dunk
Brighton & Hove Albion captain Lewis Dunk is set to return for their Friday night encounter with Southampton. Dunk has been sidelined for four games with a calf injury but is now fit for selection. Head coach Fabian Hurzeler added that Ferdi Kadioglu remains doubtful, while Tariq Lamptey is expected to feature.
Hurzeler emphasized the importance of managing players’ minutes carefully to avoid further injuries during this demanding stretch of the season.
Final Thoughts
As the Premier League gears up for Matchweek 13, injuries are playing a significant role in shaping team preparations. While Liverpool and Manchester City face major concerns over key players, clubs like Tottenham and Brighton have received timely fitness boosts.
The standout fixture of the weekend at Anfield promises to be a thrilling contest between two title contenders. With players’ availability and squad depth becoming increasingly crucial, fans can expect high-stakes football as teams battle for dominance in the league.
