This archive report was first published on 7 November 2019.
Manchester City's title hopes were dealt a major blow on Wednesday night as goalkeeper Ederson suffered a muscular injury in the first half of their Champions League match against Atalanta.
Ederson, who was substituted at half-time, is now a major doubt for Sunday's title showdown at Liverpool, according to manager Pep Guardiola.
Guardiola admitted that Ederson's injury is a significant concern, saying: 'Honestly, right now, I don't know. It was a muscular problem. He felt uncomfortable in the last few minutes of the first half. We will see how he is tomorrow.'
Ederson's replacement, Claudio Bravo, was sent off in the second half for a professional foul, leaving City with 10 men and defender Kyle Walker in goal.
Guardiola praised Walker's courage and desire to help the team in goal, saying: 'Xabi Mancisidor, our goalkeeper coach, suggested Kyle go in goal for his courage because he's quick. We're lucky we only conceded one shot on target when he was in goal, but congratulations for the courage and desire to help the team in this position.'
Guardiola also defended Bravo's red card, saying: 'It's a red card. It was given so it’s a red card. But Claudio is ready. He's an incredible, experienced professional. He's ready. If Ederson is ready, he's going to play. If not, we'll play Claudio, We trust him. Why should I doubt any players I have in my squad?'
