In a recent press conference before Manchester City’s UEFA Champions League opener against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday night (via Manchester Evening News), Pep Guardiola has confirmed that John Stones has picked up a muscular injury and will be out of action for up to five weeks. The Citizens boss addressed the media and said (via Manchester Evening News), “John Stones, he picked up an injury this morning. Four, five weeks. A muscular problem.”
Stones’ Injury Has Left Man City Short Of Options At The Back
The English centre-back is set to face another lengthy spell on the sidelines which could hamper Man City’s chances in the title race this season. Guardiola’s men are currently trailing Liverpool by five points at the top of the English top-flight standings.
The Citizens are now about to embark upon their European journey and will face a tricky tie away at Shakhtar Donetsk in midweek. With Aymeric Laporte also ruled out until February, Guardiola has only one fit senior centre-half in his squad in Nicolas Otamendi.
Therefore, the Mancunian outfit might be forced to play Fernandinho who will operate as a makeshift centre-back alongside Otamendi, at least until Stones’ expected return this fall. There is no doubt that losing the English defensive ace due to injury will be a bitter pill to swallow for Guardiola heading into his team’s European encounter away at Ukraine.
What Does The English Defender Offer On The Field?
Stones used to be a reliable presence at the back, but injuries have hampered his career at the Etihad Stadium. The English prospect has made quite a few high-profile errors for Man City over the past few years. He had a nightmare game against Norwich City last weekend when he conceded three goals after failing to form a productive partnership with Otamendi.
Stones Out for 4-5 Weeks: Massive Blow For The Citizens?
With matches coming thick and fast on all fronts in the coming weeks, not having Stones available will be a huge blow for the Citizens as they try to catch up with Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table. They will also hope to perform well in the Champions League which is expected to be their main priority this season.
Only time will tell whether Guardiola can find a way to overcome his side’s recent defensive concerns and challenge for major trophies once again towards the latter stages of this campaign.
