Manchester City winger Oscar Bobb is set to face a lengthy injury layoff after suffering a serious leg fracture during training.
City are considering sending the 21-year-old Norwegian to Barcelona for a thorough examination by the esteemed Dr. Ramon Cugat. Despite the severity of the injury, there’s cautious optimism at the Etihad that the situation might not be as dire as initially thought.
Bobb was a standout performer in City’s Community Shield victory over Manchester United on penalties last Saturday. His dazzling play was pivotal in setting up Bernardo Silva’s crucial equalizer with a moment of brilliance.
City had recently granted Julian Alvarez’s transfer request to Atletico Madrid, which will ultimately net the club £82 million. Pep Guardiola had high hopes for Bobb’s impact this season, underscoring his potential to fill the void left by Alvarez.
Having joined City from Norwegian club Lyn in 2019, Bobb progressed through the academy and made his Premier League debut against Fulham in February 2023. He had signed a new five-year contract earlier this year.
With Bobb sidelined, City may need to explore the transfer market for reinforcements as they prepare to face Chelsea in their season opener on Sunday.
The injury comes on the heels of Guardiola’s glowing praise for Bobb’s performance at Wembley. Asked if Bobb and fellow academy graduate James McAtee were ready to make a significant impact this season, Guardiola affirmed, “They have the standards that we have.”
He continued to praise Bobb, saying, “We want more from him. At times he was a bit passive when he had the chance to take on the ball. He possesses something unique; his initial steps, whether right or left, are incredible. The way he turns and delivers crosses shows his immense quality. He has great values and work ethic, and the ability to deliver regularly.”
