Overview
- Pep Guardiola confirmed Savinho's problem "does not look good" after the winger was replaced early in the second half by Jeremy Doku.
- Nico Gonzalez was withdrawn at half-time with a calf issue and will be monitored after attempting to play through the first half.
- Rodri made his return as a substitute to bolster midfield control in the second half of the goalless draw at the Stadium of Light.
- The result leaves Manchester City four points behind Arsenal, with Chelsea up next on Sunday followed by Brighton in midweek.
- City's options remain strained with Mateo Kovacic still out, John Stones targeting a January 7 return, Oscar Bobb recovering, and Omar Marmoush and Rayan Ait-Nouri away at the Africa Cup of Nations.