"He is improving. In these situations each day is important. He is working with the medical staff and is progressing," said Rafael Benitez.
"Normally he is a player who recovers quickly. He needs less time than other players.
"I was surprised because the Spanish press said he'd play some minutes this weekend and then play against Real Madrid, but the truth is we don't know yet.
"Maybe he could be on the bench against City but we don't know.
"He wants to play every single game. He knows the game against City will be very important, and also the Real Madrid one too."