Manchester City Injury Update: Latest on John Stones, Manuel Akanji and More | OneFootball

Manchester City’s Road to Recovery: Stones, Akanji, and the Race Against Time

Manchester City’s preparation for an exciting FA Cup fifth-round encounter with Plymouth has been met with both challenges and promising developments on the injury front. Following a couple of challenging defeats and a bumpy journey in the Champions League, the team’s focus shifts back to domestic affairs, where the FA Cup presents a new battleground and a chance for redemption.

John Stones: Sidelines to Recovery

In the realm of City’s defensive lineup, John Stones has become a topic of concern. The stalwart defender found himself hobbling off early during a tense Champions League play-off against Real Madrid. Attempting a straightforward pass, Stones appeared to pull a muscle, necessitating immediate on-pitch care and subsequent replacement. Pep Guardiola, in his latest briefing, conveyed a bit of relief amidst the concern. “No, no surgery. No,” Guardiola affirmed, projecting a recovery timeline of eight to ten weeks for Stones. This update places his potential return around May 2025, a crucial period as the season draws to a close.

Photo: IMAGO

Manuel Akanji’s Road to Return

Sharing the unfortunate fate of injury, Manuel Akanji also faces a lengthy pause from football following a thigh injury requiring surgical intervention. The Swiss defender’s ordeal began during the first leg against Real Madrid, culminating in surgery on February 15. Guardiola’s prognosis suggests a similar recovery period to Stones, marking early May as a plausible period for Akanji’s return to the pitch.

Photo IMAGO

Keeping an Eye on Oscar Bobb

Oscar Bobb, the young talent whose pre-season promise was sharply curtailed by a severe leg injury, is on the fringe of making a comeback. Having resumed training in January, Bobb has yet to appear in matchday squads, hindered by recurring issues. Guardiola shared an optimistic yet cautious outlook, indicating that Bobb’s return could be imminent, pending medical green lights. “He feels really good, much better since he came back,” noted Guardiola, underscoring the meticulous approach to Bobb’s rehabilitation.

Rodri’s Long-Term Absence

Amidst the backdrop of City’s recent struggles, Rodri’s situation remains a significant blow. The midfield maestro’s season was abruptly interrupted by a serious knee injury requiring surgery, sustained during a match against Arsenal. While initial hopes were pinned on a return for the summer’s Club World Cup, Guardiola has stressed the absence of any rush for Rodri’s return, suggesting that his focus should be on full recovery for the next season.

Guardiola’s Strategy Amidst Adversity

As Manchester City gears up to face Plymouth, a team that ousted Liverpool in the previous round, Guardiola has the opportunity to shuffle his pack. The manager’s adept handling of the squad rotation will be crucial as City seeks to maintain its pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts. Guardiola’s philosophy in managing player fitness and match strategies will play a pivotal role, especially as the team navigates through this turbulent phase. “We need everyone for the end of the season. Absolutely everyone,” Guardiola emphasised, hinting at the collective effort required to overcome the current challenges.

Manchester City’s immediate focus on the FA Cup represents not just a chance for silverware, but also an opportunity to recalibrate and regain momentum. As the treatment room sees gradual departures, the likes of John Stones and Manuel Akanji will be eager to rejoin their teammates in this quest. Meanwhile, the team continues to adapt, underlining the resilience and depth that has characterised Guardiola’s tenure at the helm.