Doku and O'Reilly Miss Training Ahead of Porto Clash

Manchester City’s preparations for their first Champions League test of the season hit a small snag on Monday, with Jeremy Doku and Nico O'Reilly both missing first-team training ahead of the trip to Porto.

The pair were absent as Enzo Maresca put his squad through their final session before Tuesday night’s Group Stage clash in Portugal. No official explanation has yet been given, but their non-involvement immediately cast doubt on whether either will make the travelling squad.

For Doku, it is another frustrating pause. The winger has yet to feature in the Premier League this season, watching from the sidelines while City have opened their domestic campaign with three wins from three. His pace and one‑v‑one threat would have offered Maresca a different attacking option in Europe.

O'Reilly’s situation is more clear-cut. The midfielder had to withdraw from the starting line-up shortly before Saturday’s victory over Coventry, struggling with a back problem that ruled him out of the match. Missing training so close to kick-off suggests City will be cautious with him, especially this early in the season.

City arrive in Europe in perfect league form, brimming with confidence after that 100% start. The expectation is simple: carry that rhythm onto the continental stage and set an early marker in the Champions League.

Maresca is set to face the media later on Monday, when he is expected to clarify the status of both Doku and O'Reilly. With the games already coming thick and fast, his update will offer the first clues as to how much depth he can truly rely on as City chase momentum at home and abroad.