Jeremy Doku's injury exit vs Galatasaray weakens City's flank and could narrow betting value on high-scoring markets; bettors might still back City to win but favour alternatives — consider Foden to start or reduced anytime-scorer stakes for Doku until his fitness is confirmed.
Injury blow: Jeremy Doku withdrawn as City lead Galatasaray
Jeremy Doku was forced off during Manchester City's Champions League clash with Galatasaray at the Etihad after setting up both first-half goals. The 23-year-old's knock came with around 10 minutes remaining before the break and he was replaced by Phil Foden. The club have not yet clarified the full extent of the injury, a fresh setback amid an ongoing fitness crisis.
Squad absences deepen Guardiola's selection headache
Ruben Dias, John Stones, Joško Gvardiol, Mateo Kovačić and Savinho were all sidelined for the match due to ongoing injury issues, compounding Guardiola’s shortage of options. Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo were ineligible for the fixture; having joined in January and hit the ground running, their availability has helped alleviate City’s Premier League concerns to some extent.
Reijnders shaken by head clash but continues
Tijjani Reijnders suffered a heavy-looking collision with Galatasaray defender Davinson Sánchez in the second half. Both players required treatment and left the pitch with head bandages before returning to play, with Reijnders seemingly avoiding any serious damage.
Oscar Bobb departs for Fulham
Oscar Bobb completed a reported £27m move to Fulham earlier in the day. The midfielder, who had broken into the first team in 2023/24 but had been out of the matchday squad since December, sought more regular minutes and left after a deteriorating relationship with the manager.
Betting implications and what punters should consider
Doku’s absence alters short-term betting dynamics: City remain favourites for wins, but the loss of a creative winger can reduce expected goal totals.
Consider backing City in match markets with reduced scorelines rather than high-scoring props.
Foden’s likely increased minutes make him a sensible play for starting XI or assist-related markets; avoid Doku anytime-scorer or assists markets until his fitness is confirmed.
What to watch next
Medical updates on Doku and clarity on the status of the other injured players will determine selection for upcoming fixtures. Any confirmation of prolonged absence would materially affect transfer-window considerations and short-term market value for City in both domestic and European betting markets.
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The winger picked up a knock in the first half of their Champions League tie with Galatasaray
The Independent
