Manchester City have received a major injury boost ahead of their crucial Premier League clash with Brentford, as defensive duo Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol have returned to training at the Etihad Campus.

The timing couldn't be more perfect for Pep Guardiola's side. With City trailing Arsenal by five points in the title race—though with a game in hand—every match from here on out is essentially a must-win. The return of two key defenders provides a much-needed lift as the squad prepares for Saturday's home fixture.

Dias has been sidelined since picking up a hamstring injury before the Carabao Cup final in March, while Gvardiol has been out since January with a tibial fracture. Both have watched from the stands as City mounted their domestic treble chase, with the defensive unit relying heavily on Marc Guehi and Abdukodir Khusanov during the run-in.

According to Sky Sports News, both players were back in full training on Friday. Whether they'll be available for selection against Brentford remains to be seen, with Guardiola expected to provide an update during his pre-match press conference.

Gvardiol's absence has been particularly felt. The Croatian has been one of the Premier League's standout performers this season, and City have already tabled a lucrative contract extension to keep him at the club until 2033 amid interest from Real Madrid. His return—alongside Dias, another cornerstone of the defense—could be the boost City need as they look to close the gap on Arsenal.

Beyond the league, City still have the FA Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley to look forward to, making these defensive reinforcements all the more valuable for the final stretch of the season.