Report: Guardiola issues update as Man City injuries mount at vital stage | OneFootball

Man City Injury Update: Haaland Concern Adds to Growing Fitness List

Manchester City might be on course for yet another trophy-laden season, but their progress is increasingly shadowed by the ominous cloud of injuries. The latest setback arrived during their FA Cup quarter-final win over Bournemouth – a night where victory came at the cost of losing their talismanic striker Erling Haaland to a troubling foot injury.

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As City gear up for pivotal Premier League clashes against Leicester and Manchester United, the squad’s injury list is becoming more than just a subplot to their campaign. Here’s the latest Man City injury update and what it means for the season’s defining stretch.

Haaland Injury Worry Clouds FA Cup Win

Erling Haaland’s afternoon at the Vitality Stadium encapsulated the unpredictability of football. The Norwegian powerhouse saw an early penalty saved, only to restore parity with his 30th goal of the season shortly after the interval. Yet just as the tide was turning, misfortune struck.

A challenge from Bournemouth captain Lewis Cook left Haaland grimacing and grounded, his left foot trapped awkwardly. Despite initial attempts to carry on, the striker signalled to the bench and was replaced by Omar Marmoush – who would go on to find the net in a swift counterpunch.

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While Pep Guardiola remained coy about the extent of the damage, saying “I don’t know yet, we’ll have to see,” the sight of Haaland leaving the ground on crutches and in a protective boot will have sent pulses racing throughout Manchester.

With Leicester visiting the Etihad midweek, Haaland’s availability hangs in the balance. His fitness could define City’s rhythm in both domestic and European pursuits.

Potential return date: Unknown

Bobb’s Recovery Offers Glimmer of Hope

Oscar Bobb’s rise had been one of the most intriguing narratives heading into this season. His sparkling form in pre-season and the back end of last year hinted at a breakout campaign. That was swiftly halted by a broken leg before a ball had even been kicked in earnest.

Now, there is a genuine sense of optimism. Bobb has resumed regular training and featured in a friendly with City’s second team – a crucial step on his road to full recovery.

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“He’s training now regularly, he feels really, really better,” Guardiola noted. “He played a friendly game with the second team to see how, because he has to be on the pitch in the training sessions.”

If his progression continues, a return in April or May remains on the cards – a timely boost as the fixture list intensifies.

Potential return date: April/May 2025

Defensive Depth Tested by Multiple Absences

Man City’s backline, once a bastion of tactical flexibility and ball-playing composure, is currently stretched. Manuel Akanji, who sustained a muscle injury in the Champions League tie against Real Madrid, has already undergone surgery. The estimated absence of two months places his return sometime in May – a tight window with key matches looming.

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John Stones, meanwhile, finds himself in the grip of another injury-hit season. A thigh issue, also picked up against Real Madrid, forced him off prematurely. Though surgery isn’t required, Guardiola admitted it could be up to 10 weeks before the England international is available again.

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“He can be recovered during eight to 10 weeks without surgery,” said the City boss.

Nathan Ake joins the list with a fractured foot requiring surgery earlier in March. Expected to miss at least 10 weeks, his participation in City’s end-of-season plans, including a possible Club World Cup involvement, remains uncertain.

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Akanji potential return: May 2025Stones potential return: UnknownAke potential return: Unknown

Rodri’s Road to Recovery Still Cautious

Among the longer-term absentees, Rodri’s situation is one that continues to be managed with the utmost care. The Spanish midfielder underwent knee surgery back in September, and while he’s returned to light training, there’s no rush to accelerate his return.

Guardiola stressed the delicate balance between reintegration and risk:“I don’t know. Listen, it would be nice if he played tomorrow but don’t do a wrong decision right now and make a step back.The injury, the doctors said seven months, eight months. [We’ve] arrived at six months so he’s behaving on the pitch really well already. But competition is completely different.”

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Rodri’s intelligence and composure in midfield have become non-negotiables for Guardiola’s system. But his comeback must be managed meticulously. Any misstep could have a knock-on effect far beyond this season.

Potential return date: Unknown

City’s Season Balancing on a Knife Edge

For all of City’s depth and tactical mastery, injuries have a way of disrupting even the most stable systems. From the goal threat of Haaland to the metronomic control of Rodri, several key components are either missing or uncertain for the coming weeks.

What’s clear is that Guardiola is facing one of the most demanding injury periods of his tenure – one that could very well dictate how many trophies end up at the Etihad come May.