Manchester City Injury Woes Deepen Ahead of Manchester Derby
Manchester City have won only one of their last ten games, worrying that more hurdles are on the horizon before the team regains form.
Current Premier League champions are facing a multitude of problems, including major defensive injuries. In the absence of the ball City have lacked the ability to either deny high quality opportunities or maintain their typical control of the ball.
Can Guardiola Overcome City’s Crisis?
While Guardiola’s tactical genius is unquestionable, even he appears to be struggling to arrest City’s decline. Yet, derby day often defies form, and Sunday’s clash with Manchester United offers City a chance to reclaim both confidence and local bragging rights.
Yet, with several of their important players absent, the Cityzens are facing a daunting challenge. Here’s the latest Manchester City injury news ahead of the derby.
Goalkeepers & Defenders
Rico Lewis Suspended for the Derby
As Rico Lewis is suspended following his red card against Crystal Palace, Guardiola is likely to switch to Kyle Walker at right back. Walker has endured a challenging season but remains one of City’s few fit options.
Defensive injuries have severely limited Guardiola’s choices, with Nathan Ake, John Stones, and Manuel Akanji all ruled out. Guardiola confirmed Akanji’s absence, citing a pelvic issue:
“Manu has discomfort in the pelvis and abductor area. He’s a strong player, but right now, he can’t be there,” Guardiola said.
On the plus side, both Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol are healthy and available for selection.
Midfielders
Phil Foden and Mateo Kovacic Set to Return
City’s midfield will be in happier place as Phil Foden and Mateo Kovacic reach for Sunday’s derby.
Foden, who has been battling bronchitis, missed recent matches against Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace but was part of the squad for City’s midweek loss to Juventus. In spite of a rather modest initial period of the season, his return is certainly opportune.
Mateo Kovacic has been out since November, having a role to play however especially with Ilkay Gundogan performing poorly at the base of the midfield.
Full Manchester City Injury List for the Derby
| Player | Injury | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Nathan Ake | Unspecified | Out |
| Manuel Akanji | Abductor | Out |
| Rico Lewis | Suspended | Out |
| John Stones | Unspecified | Out |
| Phil Foden | Illness | Available |
| Mateo Kovacic | Unspecified | Available |
Conclusion
Manchester City’s defensive weaknesses and inconsistency have left them behind, but derbies are counterintuitive, and Guardiola will draw on his fit players to rise to the occasion. With Foden and Kovacic returning, there’s hope for the Cityzens to turn their fortunes around against their fierce rivals.
