Grealish, Stones, De Bruyne, Kovacic - Man City injury news and return dates ahead of Red Star Belgrade

Pep Guardiola could welcome £25million summer signing Mateo Kovacic back from injury when Manchester City begin the defence of their Champions League trophy.

Having finally won the marquee European competition last season, holders City were drawn in Group H alongside first opponents against Red Star Belgrade, RB Leipzig and Young Boys. Red Star are due to visit the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night (8pm) while the other two sides meet in Switzerland.

City were without Kovacic for a 3-1 win over West Ham on Saturday afternoon as the treble-winners maintained their 100 per start start to the domestic season. Here's our latest round-up from the treatment table as City await updates on ex-Chelsea player Kovacic, Jack Grealish, John Stones and Kevin De Bruyne.

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Injury: Muscular

Possible return date: September 23 vs Nottingham Forest

What Guardiola has said: "The injury for Jack is muscular, but [also] has an incredible knock for his knee and the damage is there."

Injury: Muscular

Possible return date: September 23 vs Nottingham Forest

What Guardiola has said: "John is better, but he still has issues."

Having claimed their first Champions League crown last season, Manchester City are on a new mission - to clinch back-to-back European titles!

Blues fans won’t forget that magical night in Istanbul, but the slate is wiped clean now as Pep Guardiola and his men look to build a dynasty in the competition.

Our special preview of City’s 2023/24 Champions League campaign provides the ultimate guide to the tournament.

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