O'Reilly cleared for Manchester derby as Doku remains sidelined with calf injury

Nico O’Reilly is available for Manchester City’s Premier League derby at Old Trafford on Sunday 13 September, manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed, though winger Jeremy Doku remains absent with a calf problem.

O’Reilly, 21, was a late withdrawal from City’s win over Coventry City last weekend due to a back injury and also missed the midweek Champions League victory over Porto. Maresca was unequivocal about his status ahead of the United clash: “Nico is 100% available.”

Doku’s return is taking longer. The Belgian winger has not featured in the Premier League or Champions League this season after picking up a calf injury during the Community Shield against Arsenal last month. Maresca said only that “Jeremy needs some more days”, with a possible return pencilled in for the home fixture against Sunderland on Sunday 20 September.

City head into the derby in strong form, having won all three of their Premier League games under Maresca to sit top of the early table — level on points with Arsenal but ahead on goals scored. They also opened their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 away win over Porto, courtesy of a brace from Erling Haaland.

A victory at Old Trafford would extend City’s perfect start and hand them early bragging rights in what is expected to be one of the most competitive title races in recent seasons.