Manchester City Faces Injury Challenges as Guardiola Confirms Stones and Dias Absences After Bournemouth Defeat.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has provided crucial updates on the fitness of defenders John Stones and Ruben Dias after their absence in Saturday’s unexpected 2-1 Premier League loss to Bournemouth. This defeat snapped City’s impressive 32-game unbeaten league streak, which dated back to December 2023. Not only was it the defending champions’ first league loss this season, but also their first-ever defeat against the Cherries.
Despite a late goal from Josko Gvardiol that rekindled City’s hopes, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo and Evanilson had already secured victory, leaving City with two losses in just four days after their midweek EFL Cup exit at the hands of Tottenham.
Stones and Dias Set for Extended Absences
Guardiola confirmed that Stones and Dias, both of whom started in the EFL Cup defeat, were left out against Bournemouth due to injuries. Speaking before kickoff, he revealed that the duo is facing extended recovery periods. Following the match, Guardiola reiterated that both Stones and Dias are expected to miss upcoming games. Dias is sidelined until after the international break, while Stones remains uncertain for City’s next two fixtures.
Guardiola’s Thoughts on Defensive Depth and Player Effort
In his post-match comments, Guardiola praised the efforts of Nathan Ake, who stepped up despite dealing with a foot problem. Manuel Akanji and Rico Lewis, who have been crucial in City’s defensive lineup, also received commendations from Guardiola. The manager highlighted the challenges his squad faces, with some players lacking match rhythm due to injury.
Which Matches Will Stones and Dias Miss?
With their injuries confirmed, Stones and Dias are set to miss City’s Champions League clash with Sporting Lisbon next week, as well as the upcoming Premier League fixture against Brighton. Both players will aim to return after the international break, in time for the league showdown with Tottenham on November 23.
Positive News: Triple Injury Boost for City
In the midst of the defensive setbacks, Manchester City welcomed back three key players against Bournemouth. Captain Kyle Walker returned to the lineup after missing four matches with a knee injury. Despite limited recent training, the 34-year-old made a significant impact on his return.
Additionally, midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne was back in the squad following a nine-game absence due to a groin injury, while winger Jeremy Doku made a brief appearance after missing three games. Savinho, who suffered an ankle injury in the recent match against Tottenham, was fit enough to join the squad but did not play.
Rodri has sustained a serious knee injury and will miss the rest of the campaign. The hope for City will be that he can be fit to start when the 2025-26 campaign begins. The Norwegian suffered his leg break in August and he is now in a race against the clock to come back before the end of the year. The hope is that Bobb will play some part over the festive period.
Man City’s Position in the Premier League
Following the defeat at Bournemouth, Manchester City has dropped from the top of the Premier League table to second place, overtaken by Liverpool, who came from behind to beat Brighton. With just two points separating the teams, Guardiola’s side will be eager to recover from their recent setbacks and regain their momentum.
Manchester City Injury List And Return Date
- Ruben Dias – Expected to return after the international break in mid-November.
- John Stones – Uncertain return date; could potentially miss the next two games.
- Rodri (ACL injury) – Out for the rest of the season, possible to come back in August 2025.
- Oscar Bobb (leg fracture) – Targeting a return between January and February.
- Jack Grealish – Missed the last four games with an unspecified injury; return date before the international break is uncertain.
- Savinho – Recently recovered from an ankle injury; was fit to be in the squad against Bournemouth but did not play.
