Eliaquim Mangala, recently signed from FC Porto for a hefty €54 million, will miss Manchester City’s Premier League opener against Newcastle this Sunday. Manager Manuel Pellegrini confirmed the French defender’s absence, citing a lack of match fitness as the reason.
Mangala, who became one of the most expensive defenders in football history with this transfer, is still integrating into the squad and working to reach the required physical level. His absence means City will rely on their existing defensive setup for the season opener.
Also missing from the squad is striker Álvaro Negredo, who remains sidelined with a long-term injury expected to keep him out for about three months. Despite these absences, City will aim to start their title defense on a strong note against a competitive Newcastle side.
