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Manchester City Football Club is confronting a significant defensive challenge following recent player injuries to pivotal players. Manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that central defender John Stones is facing a prolonged absence due to a quadriceps injury sustained during the Champions League match against Real Madrid. The club is currently assessing whether Stones will require surgical intervention, which could extend his time away from the pitch.
This development compounds the club’s defensive woes, as fellow center-back Manuel Akanji recently underwent surgery for a groin injury. Akanji is expected to be sidelined for approximately eight to ten weeks, further depleting City’s defensive options.
The timing of these injuries is particularly challenging, with Manchester City set to face Premier League leaders Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, February 23, 2025. The match is crucial for City’s aspirations this season, as they currently trail Liverpool by 17 points.
Along with the defensive misfortunes, the club is tracking the health of striker Erling Haaland, who recuperates from a knee injury obtained in the 4-0 win against Newcastle United on February 15. Guardiola has confirmed that Haaland’s fit for the coming match against Liverpool is uncertain, saying, “Don’t know yet. Tomorrow we will know it, but I don’t know. It’s better to have Erling on the pitch but obviously, we don’t have it. But of course, with Erling we are stronger.”
The accumulation of injuries has prompted Guardiola to express concerns about the congested football calendar and its impact on player health. He emphasized the need for discussions among stakeholders to address the issue, noting, “That is a reality, we have to. [playing] every three days.”
In spite of these problems, Guardiola is adamant in his determination to change and preserve the competitiveness of the team. He admitted that decisions on toughening up the squad, particularly those with persistent injuries, had to be made. “Some of [the players] cannot maintain playing every three days,” he said. “Already we have a lot of players who cannot maintain what we did in the past.”
