Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Nico O'Reilly will be available for the Manchester derby, handing City a timely boost ahead of the weekend showdown with United.
The 21-year-old picked up a back problem in the warm-up before the 1-0 win over Coventry City last weekend and was missing from the matchday squad for the game in Porto. His return is a welcome relief for Maresca, who had named O'Reilly in the starting eleven for his first three games in charge before the injury.
“Nico is 100% available,” Maresca said.
Rayan Ait-Nouri is also available for selection. The Algerian came on as a substitute on Tuesday evening and provided the assist for Haaland's second goal, offering Maresca another option on the left flank.
Josko Gvardiol started at left-back against Porto midweek, but with O'Reilly and Ait-Nouri both fit, the manager now has decisions to make.
Jeremy Doku, however, remains on the treatment table. The Belgian sustained a calf injury in the first half of the Community Shield against Arsenal last month, and Maresca had previously stated that the winger would be out for 2 to 3 weeks. He now says that the player is still more days away from making his comeback.
Doku's absence against United will be keenly felt. His direct running and ability to stretch defences have been a feature of City's play, and his unavailability leaves a gap that Maresca must fill from within his squad.
For now, the focus shifts to the derby, where City will look to build on their recent form. The return of O'Reilly and Ait-Nouri gives Maresca options, but the wait for Doku continues.