Pep Guardiola has to do without the defender’s rand strike over the Christmas period after their positive test for the COVID-19
Manchester City revealed on Christmas Day that Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker and two other employees have been positive for coronavirus.
Striker Jesus scored an early goal in Arsenal’s 4-1 Carabao Cup quarter-final on Tuesday, while defender Walker made a substitute appearance as Manchester City followed the lead in the tournament they won. in three consecutive seasons and in five of the last seven.
The pair will miss meeting Premier League Boxing Day with Newcastle United as they separate themselves after a deal with COVID-19.
City will face Everton two days after Newcastle’s visit to the Etihad while the club then continue their festive season with a trip to Chelsea on 3 January.
After that, Pep Guardiola ‘s side will face Manchester United in the EFL Cup semi – final derby at Old Trafford on 6 January.
City said in a statement: “Manchester City FC can confirm that Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker and two employees have tested positive for COVID-19.
“The four employees now monitor a period of self-isolation in accordance with the Premier League and UK Government quarantine protocol.
“Everyone at the club wishes our colleagues a speedy recovery over the Christmas period before they return to work, training and competition.”
Jesus has been crucial for Manchester City this season as team-mate Sergio Aguero has battled injury issues.
Aguero, who recently returned to the first team, has asked for “some time” as he looks to recover to his best after undergoing knee surgery.
The Brazilian has appeared 11 times in all competitions, scoring four goals in total with two of those finals coming in the Premier League.
Walker, meanwhile, has appeared 18 times in all competitions for Manchester City, having appeared in 12 of the 13 total league games of this campaign.
Manchester City are currently eighth in the table, but they have a game in hand for each of Manchester United ‘s top seven in third place.
Guardiola’s side are currently eight points behind league leaders Liverpool, who host West Brom on Sunday, as well as three points behind fourth-placed Everton, who are level with Man Utd on 26 points after a game. play more.