Ivory Coast's Toure set to miss Champions League semi

AFP , Monday 25 Apr 2016

Yaya Toure
This is a Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2016 file photo of Manchester City's captain Yaya Toure during the English Premier League soccer match between Sunderland and Manchester City at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland, England (AP)

Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure is expected to miss his side's Champions League semifinal first leg against Real Madrid on Tuesday, manager Manuel Pellegrini revealed on Monday.

The Ivorian did not take part in City's final pre-match training session on Monday after picking up a muscular injury towards the end of Sunday's 4-0 Premier League win over Stoke City.

"I think he's going to be out," Pellegrini told a press conference at the City Football Academy training complex. "He hasn't recovered from a muscle injury."

With Toure likely to miss out, Brazilians Fernando and Fernandinho are expected to be paired together in central midfield.

"The two Brazilian lads have played well when they have played together, and in Europe as well," Pellegrini said.

"For example against PSG (in the quarterfinals). I'm very confident in what they can provide."

Captain Vincent Kompany, who has struggled with calf injuries this season, was able to train, having been rested for the victory against Stoke.

While Real Madrid are chasing an 11th European Cup, City are appearing in the semifinals of the Champions League for the first time.

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