Manchester City got back on track in the Champions League with a commanding 4-0 win over Slovan Bratislava on Tuesday night, delivering the kind of performance fans had been craving after a disappointing draw against Newcastle.
From the start, City dominated their Slovakian opponents, with Ilkay Gundogan and Phil Foden finding the net within the first 15 minutes. Foden, making his first start of the season, looked sharp as he helped put the game beyond reach early on. Despite some frustrations, City added to the scoreline in the second half. Erling Haaland coolly rounded goalkeeper Dominik Takac in the 58th minute to make it 3-0, before Foden set up James McAtee for his first Champions League goal, sealing the 4-0 win with just over 15 minutes remaining.
While City comfortably secured the victory, they could have scored even more, such was their dominance. The bright side? No new injuries to report, a rare stroke of luck for the Blues. Here’s a roundup of the latest injury news from Manchester City’s treatment room:
Kevin De Bruyne
Injury: Thigh
The Belgian maestro was absent once again, and his return remains uncertain. Pep Guardiola is unsure whether De Bruyne will be back before or after the October international break. With his injury history, City are expected to proceed with caution.
Potential return date: Wolves (A) – October 20
Rodri
Injury: ACL
Before the match, John Stones revealed he spoke with Rodri and learned that his ACL surgery was successful. Rodri now faces a lengthy recovery process.
Potential return date: August 2025
Oscar Bobb
Injury: Fractured Leg
The young Norwegian suffered a leg break in August and is racing against time to make a return before year-end. The club hopes Bobb will feature during the festive period.
Potential return date: December
Nathan Ake
Injury: Hamstring
Ake was sidelined with a painful hamstring injury sustained during the international break. He’s expected to be back shortly after the October break.
Potential return date: Wolves (A) – October 20
As Manchester City continues their quest for silverware, the hope is that these key players will return soon to bolster Guardiola’s squad.
