A shadow fell over Manchester City’s Champions League victory against Galatasaray as Jeremy Doku, the dynamic winger, was unexpectedly forced off the pitch in the first half. His early departure immediately sparked concern about a potential setback for the team and the player himself.
Doku had begun the match with electrifying energy, directly contributing to goals by Erling Haaland and Rayan Cherki. His assists showcased the immediate impact he’s capable of, making his premature exit all the more disheartening for both fans and his manager.
The manager anticipates Doku will likely miss the crucial upcoming match against Tottenham. This news is particularly frustrating for the 23-year-old, who had only recently returned to full fitness after a previous injury sidelined him for several games.
Despite the concern surrounding Doku, Manchester City secured their place in the Champions League’s top eight with the win. This achievement provides a significant relief following a turbulent European campaign marked by both impressive victories and unexpected defeats.
The team remembers the stinging loss to Bodo/Glimt earlier in the month, a result that shook confidence. However, five wins from eight games ultimately proved sufficient to bypass the playoff round and advance directly to the last 16.
The manager acknowledged the tight nature of the qualification process, stating the team had opportunities to extend their lead but failed to capitalize. He emphasized the need for continued improvement and a return to peak performance.
While City avoids the pressure of a playoff, they now face a challenging draw. Their opponents in the last 16 will be one of Benfica, Bodo/Glimt, Inter Milan, or Real Madrid – a formidable group of contenders.
The manager noted a disparity in performance between the two halves of the Galatasaray match, observing that the second half created more chances despite being less dominant overall. He remains focused on refining the team’s consistency and reaching their full potential.
