'Perform well, no injuries' - Pep Guardiola suggests Man City will prioritise health over victory in Carabao Cup clash with Tottenham as injury crisis hits new levels

Heading into the clash with Tottenham, Guardiola faces the challenge of fielding a squad that has been stretched to its limits. They are plagued by an almighty number of injuries and Guardiola has made it clear that his main objective is to get through the match without sending any further players to the treatment table.

Six of Guardiola's key players are currently sidelined, significantly impacting his options. Among the absentees is newly crowned Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who will miss the rest of the season. Additionally, long-term absentee Kevin De Bruyne, who has been out since picking up an injury against Inter in September, remains unavailable for selection. Other crucial players missing from action include Kyle Walker, Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku, and young Oscar Bobb.

In his pre-match press conference, Guardiola did not shy away from admitting the tough circumstances surrounding his squad. "We have a few players," he remarked, "We are going to try and do a good game to try to go through. Always it happens. Last season we were out against Newcastle but played really well. Perform well, this is what I want, no injuries please and go to the last week before the international break in November."

City’s history in the competition under Guardiola is notable; his first trophy with the club was a Carabao Cup in 2018, followed by three more consecutive wins. However, since their last Carabao Cup triumph in 2021, the trophy has eluded them.

Ultimately, Wednesday’s clash at Tottenham will serve as a test of resilience for Guardiola’s squad. With limited options, the manager is likely to field a young starting XI with several academy players making up the numbers as the primary goal is to come out with no additional injury concerns rather than an outright victory.