Pep’s Presser: Sterling & De Bruyne injury updates, Sheikh Mansour, does KDB have a release clause? – City Watch

The international break is over and Manchester City host newly-promoted Fulham this weekend at the Etihad Stadium, hoping for back to back home wins after overcoming Newcastle before the internationals.

Ahead of the game, Pep Guardiola gave his customary press conference at the City Football Academy and was quizzed on a number of topics.

On the injury front, there was good news with Pep confirming Raheem Sterling is fit after withdrawing from national team duty with a back problem.

“He is fit, the last day [in training] is better,” Guardiola said of Sterling.

The City boss was quoted in Spain as saying Kevin De Bruyne has a €250m release clause – but he suggested that is not the case and that he had been misquoted.

“I don’t know what is his release clause. Jorge Valdano asked me if we would sell him for €250m and I said no. I don’t think he has a release clause.”

And how about KDB’s recovery? Pep said the Belgian midfielder is recovering well, although he won’t be back any time soon.

“He’s doing well, the doctors tell me he is doing well,” Pep revealed.

Asked about City owner Sheikh Mansour after the tenth anniversary of his takeover, Pep revealed just how fanatical Mansour is about his club.

“He likes the sports and follows us every weekend, every game. He knows absolutely everything about the team.”

And he had some words for weekend opponents Fulham, who are back in the top-flight after a lengthy absence.

“I was delighted watching them. I am really impressed and I understand when I watch them why they are in the Premier League.”

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