Big Blow for Man City! Why Marc Guehi is Not Playing Against Newcastle Tonight?

Man City have an important second-leg Carabao Cup encounter against Newcastle at the Etihad Stadium, with one question plaguing the minds of their fans: ‘Why Marc Guehi is not playing tonight?’ The 25-year-old centre back has been enjoying a breakout season in the English Premier League, which earned him a move to the Citizens for £19.8 million from Crystal Palace.

However, his move to Manchester after the conclusion of the first leg rules Marc Guehi out for the second leg. According to the competition rules, players need to be registered for their second club before the first leg of the semi-final. Additionally, he will not be able to play in the cup final if Man City closes the deal against Newcastle on Thursday.

Why is Marc Guehi not playing vs Newcastle?

The Englishman is not expected to feature for one of the best football clubs in the world right now, Man City, against Newcastle, as the Citizens made their move after the first leg of the Carabao Cup semifinal. Guehi, who joined the side during the January transfer window, has brought much-needed leadership and defensive awareness to Pep Guardiola's men. In case Man City fans are wondering whether one of their newest acquisition will be in the Man City vs Newcastle squad or not. The answer is NO.

However, Guehi will be back in the squad for their EPL games and, more importantly, in their games within Europe's elite club competition, the UEFA Champions League. City are facing a tricky run of fixtures following the Carabao Cup game, starting with a trip to Anfield Road to face Liverpool, and welcoming Fulham to the Etihad Stadium on February 12.

Pep Guardiola will be hoping the young shoulders of Max Alleyne and Abdukodir Khusanov are ready for the upcoming game to partner Nathan Ake in the heart of City's defence.

How did Marc Guehi perform against Tottenham?

Marc Guehi was not at his very best against the Lilywhites at one of the iconic stadiums in the world, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Cityzens' new signing completed 74 of his 77 passes, averaging a 96% passing accuracy. Guehi also made seven clearances in the game and three ball recoveries in the game, while being an observer for the two goals that Man City conceded.

The former Crystal Palace defender had a game of two halves against Spurs, but will be hoping to use this break to refocus himself. Pep ideally would have wanted to field his starting XI from the Tottenham game against Newcastle; he will have to rely on squad depth for Thursday.