Guardiola Cautious on Injuries as Man City Target Strong Finish | OneFootball

Man City Face Key Fitness Concerns Ahead of Crucial Season Finale

As Manchester City chase domestic silverware and Champions League qualification, Pep Guardiola’s squad finds itself balancing elite ambition with lingering injury setbacks. The return of Erling Haaland has offered a timely lift—but uncertainty looms over several other crucial players ahead of the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace.

Haaland Back But Questions Remain

Erling Haaland’s reappearance in City’s line-up offered hope but not results. The Norwegian striker played the full 90 minutes in the frustrating stalemate against already-relegated Southampton, following a lengthy absence due to an ankle injury sustained during the FA Cup quarter-final against Bournemouth. Despite registering 26 shots and enjoying over 70% possession, Guardiola’s side could not convert dominance into goals.

With the FA Cup final approaching and two remaining Premier League fixtures—against Bournemouth and Fulham—City cannot afford further stumbles. Haaland’s sharpness will be crucial, but City’s rhythm continues to be disrupted by absences in key areas of the pitch.

Rodri’s Return a Waiting Game

No absence has been more keenly felt than that of Rodri. Out since September with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, the midfielder has slowly edged towards fitness after surgery in Barcelona. Though back in team training, Guardiola remains cautious.

Photo: IMAGO

“Still not available,” was the manager’s blunt assessment before the Southampton clash, underlining the need for medical clearance before risking the Ballon d’Or winner. While a Wembley return is not ruled out, appearances against Bournemouth or Fulham seem more realistic. His absence has often been linked to City’s uncharacteristic inconsistency this season.

Potential return date: Tuesday 20 May vs Bournemouth (H)

Stones and Ake in Race Against Time

John Stones, who picked up a thigh injury in February during City’s Champions League exit to Real Madrid, remains an enigma. The absence of updates suggests his recovery is slower than hoped, and with no timeline confirmed, the centre-back’s season could already be over.

Potential return date: Unknown

Nathan Ake, meanwhile, is slightly closer. After fracturing his foot in the FA Cup fifth-round tie against Plymouth, he has resumed partial team training. Yet Guardiola confirmed his absence ahead of the Southampton draw, casting doubt over his availability for the final.

Potential return date: Tuesday 20 May vs Bournemouth (H)

Oscar Bobb Nearing Full Fitness

Young winger Oscar Bobb, whose promising start to the season was curtailed by a fractured leg and then a hamstring issue, has also returned to limited training. Although not deemed ready for Southampton, he is expected to be fit for the penultimate league game.

Potential return date: Tuesday 20 May vs Bournemouth (H)

Man City’s Season Defined by Margins

City remain in contention on multiple fronts, but injuries have blunted their usual precision. With just weeks remaining, Guardiola must hope his key players can return not just in body, but in rhythm, to salvage what has been a turbulent campaign by their high standards.