Latest Manchester City Injury Updates: Haaland, Ake, De Bruyne, Rodri, and Bobb in Doubt for Slovan Bratislava Clash
Manchester City are heading into their Champions League fixture against Slovan Bratislava with a number of key players sidelined due to injuries. After being held to a goalless draw by Inter Milan in their group stage opener, Pep Guardiola’s side is desperate for their first win, but injuries could complicate matters.
Here’s a rundown of the latest injury concerns facing Manchester City ahead of the European tie:
Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland’s availability is now in question after City’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle over the weekend. Despite completing the match, Haaland appeared to pick up a knock at St James’ Park. Guardiola confirmed that the Norwegian striker will be assessed before the Champions League showdown.
“He [Haaland] has some knocks, we’ll see the next days,” Guardiola said.
Potential return date: Slovan Bratislava (A) – October 1
Rodri
The biggest blow for City is the long-term absence of Rodri. The midfielder suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury during the 2-2 draw against Arsenal on September 22. Surgery has sidelined him for the rest of the season.
Potential return date: August 2025
Nathan Ake
Nathan Ake has been missing from action after a hamstring injury he sustained during the September international break. Having missed City’s last five games, Ake is not expected to return until mid-October, following the next international break.
Potential return date: Wolves (A) – October 20
Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne has been out with a thigh injury since City’s Champions League match against Inter Milan. Guardiola was uncertain whether the Belgian playmaker will return before the upcoming international break or afterward, keeping fans on edge.
“I don’t know. Before maybe the (October) international break, or after the international break. So we will see,” Guardiola revealed.
Potential return date: Fulham (H) – October 5 or Wolves (A) – October 20
Oscar Bobb
Oscar Bobb is another long-term absentee after fracturing his leg during a training session in August. The 21-year-old is not expected to return until December, missing several crucial fixtures.
Potential return date: December
With key players like Haaland, De Bruyne, and Rodri all in doubt or ruled out, Pep Guardiola faces a challenging task as Manchester City looks to secure a much-needed win in Slovakia.
