Manchester City Facing Injury Concerns: Key Players and Their Potential Return Dates | OneFootball

Manchester City Injury Updates: Key Players and Their Return Dates

Manchester City’s recent performances have been marred by injury concerns, with several key players sidelined as the team faces a crucial stage of the season. Despite leading twice against Brighton, Pep Guardiola’s side were held to a 2-2 draw, a result that leaves them in a tight race for Champions League qualification. With only a slim margin separating them from Newcastle and Brighton in sixth and seventh, the pressure is on for the defending champions.

The good news for City is that even a fifth-place finish could secure a spot in next season’s Champions League, but the path to qualification is far from guaranteed. With injury setbacks taking their toll, here’s a detailed look at the latest injury updates for Manchester City.

Bernardo Silva: Setback or Temporary Concern?

Bernardo Silva’s substitution during the draw with Brighton raised immediate concerns. After coming on as a substitute for Savinho, Silva was replaced by Phil Foden around 20 minutes later. Guardiola noted that the Portuguese midfielder “couldn’t move properly” and did not want to take any risks with potential injury. Despite this, Silva featured for Portugal during the international break, which suggests that the injury may not be serious.

Potential return date: Unknown, though it is expected that Silva will be available for City’s FA Cup quarter-final against Bournemouth.

Photo: IMAGO

Ederson: Minor Setback for City’s Number One

Ederson’s absence from the Brighton draw was confirmed to be due to an abdominal issue. Guardiola downplayed the severity of the injury, calling it a “niggle” that the goalkeeper had previously struggled with at Forest. Though Ederson missed Brazil’s World Cup qualification double header, the injury is not expected to keep him out for long. Guardiola hopes to have Ederson back in action following the international break.

Potential return date: April 2025, with a return likely after the international break.

Oscar Bobb: A Long Road to Recovery

Winger Oscar Bobb’s injury has been one of the more disappointing setbacks for City this season. After impressing in pre-season and towards the end of last year, Bobb broke his leg before the campaign got underway, sidelining him for an extended period. However, Guardiola has confirmed that Bobb is back in training and is gradually recovering. With the Norway international feeling much better, the hope is that he could make a return before the end of the season.

Potential return date: April/May 2025, with a possibility of featuring in the latter stages of the campaign.

Manuel Akanji: Surgery and Setback for the Swiss Defender

Defender Manuel Akanji’s season was interrupted by a muscle injury sustained against Real Madrid in February. The Swiss international underwent surgery, and reports suggest he is expected to be out for around two months. This leaves a significant gap in City’s defensive line, especially with other injuries mounting.

Potential return date: May 2025, with a return expected towards the end of the season.

John Stones: Injury Woes Continue

John Stones’ season has been plagued by injury troubles, and he was forced off with a thigh problem during the clash with Real Madrid. Guardiola confirmed that Stones does not require surgery, and he could recover within 8-10 weeks without needing an operation. The uncertainty surrounding his return remains a major concern for City, particularly with the business end of the season approaching.

Potential return date: Unknown, with recovery dependent on how well his injury heals.

Photo: IMAGO

Nathan Ake: Setback for Key Defender

Nathan Ake’s injury, sustained earlier this month, required surgery on a fractured foot. Ake had been a regular fixture in Guardiola’s defence, and his absence leaves City with fewer options at the back. The expected recovery time is between 10-11 weeks, which could affect his availability for the remainder of the season, including City’s potential participation in the Club World Cup.

Potential return date: Unknown, with his fitness uncertain for the remainder of the season.

Rodri: A Long-Term Recovery

Rodri’s recovery from knee surgery in September has been a gradual process, with the Spanish international now resuming some training. Guardiola remains cautious, stressing that Rodri will not be rushed back, given the severity of his ACL injury. While it’s unclear when Rodri will return, there is optimism that he could play a part in City’s end-of-season fixtures, possibly even in the Premier League or the Club World Cup.

Potential return date: Unknown, with a return before the end of the season possible but not guaranteed.