Pep Guardiola has revealed that UEFA EURO 2024 stars Phil Foden, Kyle Walker, John Stones and Rodri will all return to training next week.
“We try to give them the best rest, as much as possible,” Guardiola told the official club website. “We would like more time but it is what it is, we gave them a lot.
“All the players came back, but the England players and Rodri will come back next week. What we like to give them is what it is, don’t think about the schedule.
“What’s next, training sessions, it’s just step by step. Try to be smart enough in training and get the right amount of time, so be fresh in the mind.”
But Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku and Manuel Akanji have all reported back to training following their exertions at the Euros and are in contention to feature in Saturday's Community Shield against Manchester United at Wembley Stadium.
Meanwhile, Guardiola confirmed that Julian Alvarez has asked to leave Manchester City because he wants a "new challenge", with the 24-year-old Argentinian on the verge of joining Atletico Madrid.
"It was a joy to work with him," Guardiola added. "I learnt a lot from him and hopefully he can find what he was looking for.
“He believes his period here must be over so both clubs arrive to an agreement. He's incredibly loved by the team for his behaviour but he wants to leave and have a new challenge."
City begin the defence of their Premier League title at Chelsea on Sunday 18 August before hosting promoted Ipswich Town six days later.
