Guardiola Provides Fitness Update on Jeremy Doku Ahead of Leeds Clash

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has offered an update on Jeremy Doku’s injury as the Blues prepare for their crucial Premier League trip to Elland Road against Leeds United this Saturday. The Belgian winger has been sidelined for a month, but recent progress in training has given Guardiola cautious optimism ahead of the encounter.

City are in the midst of a crucial run in all competitions, seeking to extend their winning streak to six games. Their last Premier League outing saw a dramatic 2-1 victory over Newcastle United, thanks to a brace from young sensation Nico O’Reilly. That win keeps Guardiola’s side in contention for the league title, although Arsenal currently lead the standings by five points, having played an extra game.

The victory over Newcastle also highlighted Manchester City’s improved defensive stability. Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Savinho have all returned to first-team action in recent weeks, putting an end to the defensive struggles that plagued the club in January. The January signings of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth and Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace have also bolstered Guardiola’s squad, with both players impressing and expected to retain their starting positions against Leeds.

While City are enjoying improved fitness across much of the squad, some key players remain on the road to recovery. Mateo Kovacic, who underwent ankle surgery in November 2025, has resumed individual training on the pitch but is still some way from a full return. Similarly, Josko Gvardiol, recovering from a tibial fracture suffered in January during a 1-1 draw with Chelsea, is targeting a comeback in April or May. Young defender Max Alleyne, who returned temporarily from a loan spell at Watford, also remains under monitoring after leaving the field in City’s FA Cup fourth-round win over Salford City.

Jeremy Doku has been one of City’s more frustrating absentees in recent weeks. The Belgian winger suffered a calf injury during a 2-0 Champions League win over Galatasaray in January, ruling him out of action for the past month. Guardiola addressed Doku’s progress in Friday’s press conference, confirming that the 21-year-old had completed his first training session after the layoff. “Yesterday, (he) made the first training session,” Guardiola said. When asked about a potential return date, he added: “I don’t know. We’ll talk with the doctors and physios.”

While Doku continues his rehabilitation, other attacking options have stepped up for City. Egypt international Omar Marmoush has returned from the Africa Cup of Nations in fine form, providing pace and creativity on the wings. Guardiola is expected to rely on Marmoush alongside Semenyo and Savinho to fill the attacking spaces in Doku’s absence.

The fixture at Leeds presents a unique challenge for Manchester City. Marcelo Bielsa’s side are known for their high-intensity pressing and physical style, which could test City’s attacking and defensive coordination. Guardiola will likely continue to rotate his squad carefully to balance recovery for key players with the need to maintain momentum in the league.

City fans will be keeping a close eye on Doku’s recovery, as the Belgian winger adds a dynamic option in wide areas that can stretch defences and create scoring opportunities. With the season entering its decisive months, having Doku fit could be crucial for Guardiola’s side as they chase a first Premier League title in two years, while also remaining competitive in Europe and domestic cup competitions.

As City look to maintain their pressure on Arsenal at the top of the table, the return of key players like Doku will be pivotal. For now, Guardiola’s update suggests that the winger’s comeback is underway, but patience will be key to ensure he returns fully fit and ready to contribute to City’s title challenge.