By
SABC Sport
18th February 2026
City sit four points behind Arsenal in the title race but remain firmly in contention across four competitions.
They have already secured qualification for the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League, progressed to the fifth round of the FA Cup, and are set to meet Arsenal in next month's EFL Cup final.
Guardiola is hopeful of welcoming back Erling Haaland, who was rested for the FA Cup victory over Salford City. The Norwegian striker has been spotted at the Etihad Stadium without any visible discomfort and is expected to return against Newcastle.
Savinho has also returned to training and could have featured against Salford if required. He is anticipated to be included in the squad this weekend.
Jeremy Doku is close to a comeback as well, with a place on the bench possible, although a late decision will be made to avoid any unnecessary risks.
There remain longer-term absentees. Mateo Kovacic, sidelined since Achilles surgery last summer, could return after the March international break.
Max Alleyne, who was forced off early against Salford, awaits further assessment, while Josko Gvardiol is expected to miss the remainder of the season after suffering a broken leg against Chelsea last month.
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