The France international missed eight months last season and is partway through a three-month injury lay-off with a knee injury.
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The City boss says he will recover and learn from his set-backs and learn from players like Fernandinho.
“He needs to know what it is to be strong, that has to be his target - to play every three days - like Fernandinho who is so strong and is never injured,” said Pep.
“I think Mendy is a good professional. When he is there on pitch and locker room, he does what he has to do.
“I can’t deny that last season he had a big injury and this season he has another… Mendy’s potential is so good, but it’s a pity for him and us that he hasn’t played much because of those injuries.”
The Blues’ boss also revealed he has been looking closely at the goals conceded in midweek against Lyon.
It’s three months since City conceded from open play in Premier League, but the manager is not allowing his players to rest on their laurels and says they can always be better.
“They are good stats but when people say: ‘we are so good’, the next game it is going to happen!
“That’s good so far, five goals conceded so far which is good.
“The last game against Lyon, we conceded chances and need to look what happened there.”
Don’t forget, we will bring you live minute-by-minute coverage of Saturday’s game via our Matchday Centre.
