Pep Guardiola has been dealt a huge blow
Ahead of their crunch Premier League encounter with Arsenal, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that defenders John Stones and Kyle Walker are set to miss out. It’s a massive blow for the Spaniard, who will be short of options at the back against the most prolific side in the league right now.
Stones and Walker picked up injuries during the international break at the England camp. The former came off with an adductor injury during a friendly game to Belgium, whereas Walker sustained a hamstring injury in the early stages of their game to Brazil. Now, the defensive pair have been ruled out of their top-flight encounter with the Gunners.
With 70 goals in 28 games, Arsenal are the most dangerous team in the division right now. They’re also on an eight-game winning run in the Premier League, a run unmatched by any other side as Mikel Arteta’s side sit pretty at the top of the league table with 64 points, even ahead of Liverpool on goal-difference.
Stones and Walker’s absence will surely be a huge blow to City, as the players have been key to their impressive run once again this season. But in some positive development, Jack Grealish has returned to training and could feature on Sunday, whereas goalkeeper Ederson is also set to make a quick return from his thigh problem. Kevin De Bruyne, who missed the international break for Belgium, has recovered from his groin injury, and will be available for selection.
Manchester City beset with injuries during a crucial juncture
Manchester City are blighted by a series of key injuries during a crucial time. The English champions are set to play seven games over the next 21 days, including a crunch two-legged encounter with Real Madrid in the Champions League, and the FA Cup semi-final with Chelsea. With his squad currently stretched, Guardiola will be forced to use whatever resources he has at his disposal to navigate through this rocky period ahead.
Also Read: Pep Guardiola Worries as Key Players Injured Before Man City vs Arsenal