Sergio Aguero and the rest of Manchester City's South American contingent will miss the start of the season, says Manuel Pellegrini.
Aguero, Pablo Zabaleta, Martin Demichelis and Fernandinho are yet to link up with the City squad after being afforded an extended holiday following their Copa America exploits with Argentina and Brazil.
Pellegrini wants to give his squad ample time to prepare ahead of the August 8 kick-off, with City travelling to West Brom before hosting Chelsea, and will not rush back latecomers.
"I think in football it's so important to work hard but also resting has the same importance," Pellegrini told reporters.
"You have so many games throughout the year that if you don’t give them 30 days after they’ve finished their internationals, it's very difficult for them to work hard.
"It's more difficult for the South American players because Pablo Zabaleta, Martin Demichelis, Sergio Aguero and Fernandinho finished later, the first days of July, so they won't have 30 days.
"I think when we return to Manchester they will start their pre-season. Maybe they will not be involved in the first game but I am sure they will work hard and will be involved as soon as they can."
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