Jeremy Doku ruled out as Manchester City begin season without key winger

Manchester City will be without Jeremy Doku for their Premier League opener against Bournemouth after the winger was ruled out with a calf injury.

Doku’s absence removes one of City’s most direct attacking options at the start of Enzo Maresca’s first campaign in charge, with the Belgian international expected to miss the opening fixture of the season.

The 24-year-old has been a key part of City’s attacking rotation since arriving from Rennes, offering a different profile through his acceleration, one-on-one ability and ability to create overloads on the wing.

City will also be without Savinho, who is unavailable as he continues discussions over a potential move to Tottenham, further reducing Maresca’s options in wide areas.

There is better news elsewhere in the squad, with Matheus Nunes available for selection after recovering from his issue and returning to team training.

The absence of Doku comes at a difficult moment for City, who are already adapting to major changes following Rodri’s departure to Barcelona and the continued reshaping of the squad.

Maresca will now have to rely on alternative attacking solutions as City begin the season looking to maintain their level despite significant changes to the squad.

The Bournemouth fixture will provide an early indication of how quickly the new City structure can adapt without some of its established attacking threats.