Pep Guardiola Faces Injury Headache with Limited Options as Man City Prepares for Bournemouth Showdown
Manchester City is grappling with a wave of injuries ahead of their clash with Bournemouth this weekend. Pep Guardiola has raised concerns about his squad depth, warning that City might have only 13 fit outfield players available for the South Coast fixture.
The team’s recent injury struggles were compounded during their match against Tottenham, where Manuel Akanji was pulled from the starting lineup, young talent Savinho was stretchered off, and both Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias faced fitness doubts.
Akanji provided a positive update on Thursday, assuring Sky Sports he feels “fine” and expects to train on Friday, hopeful to join the lineup for the Bournemouth game. Savinho’s situation is also looking brighter, with reports indicating his injury isn’t as severe as initially feared, though his return date remains uncertain. Gvardiol, meanwhile, posted an optimistic message on social media, suggesting his readiness for Saturday’s game despite needing treatment post-match.
Erling Haaland and Ederson, both rested against Tottenham, are expected to return to the starting XI. If Akanji is fit, he could join John Stones in central defense, with Rico Lewis likely covering the right and Nathan Ake, facing his former club, on the left. Guardiola hinted that Ruben Dias may be dealing with minor injuries, adding to the pressure on City’s defensive lineup.
In midfield, Mateo Kovacic is expected to start, reuniting with Bernardo Silva, who was also rested at Tottenham. Ilkay Gundogan may have to step back in despite recent form concerns. Matheus Nunes, currently in top form on the left, may be joined by Phil Foden on the right, though Foden could alternatively slot into a central role, allowing Bernardo to take the right flank.
City’s bench may feature young talents James McAtee and Nico O’Reilly, while Friday’s Premier League 2 match against Norwich may signal additional youth promotions, with Jahmai Simpson-Pusey, Jacob Wright, and Farid Alfa-Ruprecht likely candidates to bolster the squad.
Predicted Manchester City Lineup vs Bournemouth:
- Goalkeeper: Ederson
- Defense: Lewis, Akanji, Dias, Ake
- Midfield: Kovacic, Gundogan, Bernardo Silva
- Forwards: Nunes, Foden, Haaland
With Guardiola’s squad stretched thin, City faces a true test of resilience as they aim to secure vital points despite their injury woes.
