Pep Guardiola Faces Defensive Crisis Ahead of Manchester Derby as Key Players Remain Injured
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is facing a defensive headache ahead of this weekend’s Manchester Derby, with just three fit senior defenders available for the clash against rivals Manchester United. The Blues can rely on Kyle Walker, Josko Gvardiol, and Ruben Dias, but the team is depleted by injuries and suspensions. Rico Lewis is suspended after his red card in the 1-0 win over Crystal Palace, while key defenders Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake, and John Stones are sidelined. Long-term absentees Oscar Bobb and Rodri add to the list of challenges facing City as they prepare for Sunday’s showdown.
Latest Injury Updates from the Etihad
Manuel Akanji
- Injury: Abductor
- What We Know: Guardiola revealed that Akanji has been struggling with an abductor issue, which led to his substitution at halftime during the win over Nottingham Forest.
- Potential Return: Aston Villa (A) – December 21
Nathan Ake
- Injury: Hamstring
- What We Know: Ake sustained a hamstring injury late in the win over Forest. Although it initially raised concerns about its severity, it is not expected to be a long-term issue, but he will miss the derby.
- Potential Return: Aston Villa (A) – December 21
Mateo Kovacic
- Injury: Unknown
- What We Know: Kovacic returned from international duty with Croatia carrying an injury but was included in the squad for Juventus. He could feature against United this weekend.
- Potential Return: Manchester United (H) – December 15
John Stones
- Injury: Unknown
- What We Know: Stones was forced off after just 45 minutes in the defeat to Tottenham and has been absent from the last two matchday squads. Guardiola is hopeful he’ll be available for the following week.
- Potential Return: Aston Villa (A) – December 21
Rodri
- Injury: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
- What We Know: Rodri is dealing with a serious knee injury and will be out until at least the middle of 2025. Despite the setback, he has expressed his determination to return before the season’s end, possibly in the Club World Cup.
- Potential Return: June 2025
Oscar Bobb
- Injury: Fractured Leg
- What We Know: Bobb suffered a leg fracture in August. The hope is that he could make a return in the early months of 2025.
- Potential Return: January/February
With this growing injury list, Guardiola faces a crucial period, as Manchester City looks to maintain its momentum in the Premier League and continue their quest for silverware. The Manchester Derby promises to be a true test of depth for the reigning champions.
